Representatives of the British Horseracing Board (BHB) and the Jockey Club attended a meeting with Baroness Hayman, Minister of State (Lords) at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food today (28th February 2001) to discuss the ongoing programme of events following BH?_x0019_s decision yesterday to suspend racing until 7th March 2001.

The Minister reiterated her support for the responsible attitude being taken by the racing authorities in their decisions. The work being undertaken to develop a code of practice for a resumption of racing after the current temporary suspension is being developed in liaison with MAFF veterinary officials.

Baroness Hayman said: “I very much welcome and fully support the responsible and sensible approach which racing is taking, particularly to ensure the industry and the public can have confidence once the additional precautions are put in place prior to the resumption of racing.”

The codes of practice will be disseminated throughout the industry as soon as possible.

For further information please contact:

Alan Delmonte, BHB, 0207 343 3318 or 07931 701536
John Maxse,
The Jockey Club, 020 7343 3219 or 07785 243232