BHA defends use of whip after Labour manifesto pledges inquiry
Authority ‘proud of care and respect’ in racing Only two horses sustain marks in three years
The British Horseracing Authority has launched a staunch defence of use of the whip in racing in the face of the Labour party’s decision to include the issue in its animal welfare manifesto.
If Labour came to power the manifesto, which was published yesterday, said it would launch an “independent review of the use of the whip to establish if its use for ‘encouragement’ can be justified”.
The BHA reacted by publishing a statement that said: “British racing is committed to high standards of horse welfare and proud of the care and respect shown to horses every day by the thousands of staff who work in our sport.
“British racing constantly uses evidence, research and consultation with the industry to evolve and improve its policies and rules, when it is required or appropriate.
“Whips are carried as an essential aid to horsemanship and safety, which this Labour party policy proposal acknowledges. This is consistent across most equine activities.
“The design of the whip is foampadded and energy absorbing. The thresholds for use are set well below the point at which its use might compromise the welfare of a horse.
“Only one horse has been marked or “wealed” by use of the whip in each of the last two years, and none the previous year, meaning only two horses have been marked from in excess of 225,000 runners.”
Will Lambe, the executive director of the BHA, said: “British racing’s high standards of horse welfare have been recognised by successive governments of all parties. We are confident that any external scrutiny of our sport will recognise the dedication and care shown by racing staff, including our jockeys, and the high quality of life experienced by our horses.
“We respect the right of politicians to ask questions of our sport and we can – and do – reassure them of the high standards of welfare. We have had constructive engagement with Labour’s Shadow Defra [Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs] team, and will respond in a measured and united way to ensure the facts and information are set out confidently and fairly.”