JIM CLARK AND MU LL COULD RETURN WITH NEW LAW

The likes of the Jim Clark and Mull rallies could return in 2019 as the Scottish government has committed to a public discussion about a new law that would permit closed-road motorsport in Scotland.

After consulting with the Motor Sports Association, which has successfully campaigned for similar legislation in England and Wales, a working group will be initiated “this summer” – followed by a consultation – in a bid to influence legislation that could be put to parliament.

A meeting last week between the MSA, Scottish Motor Sports and the minister for Transport, Humza Yousaf, was believed to be successful.

“We remain absolutely committed to our long-standing goal of achieving closed-road motorsport across mainland Britain and we’re pleased that Transport Scotland has started the journey towards new legislation,” said MSA chairman David Richards.

“This would be a wonderful opportunity not only to revive famous events such as the Jim Clark and Mull Rallies but also to welcome new closed-road fixtures onto the Scottish motorsport calendar in years to come.”

The Mull Rally was unable to run last year because of insurance difficulties, while if new legislation is passed that problem will no longer exist.

The Jim Clark Rally hasn’t run since 2014, when three people were killed in a crash. Investigations concluded last year. Mull bosses are in discussions to run a Targa rally again this year, as they did in 2017.