Following the result of the 2019 General Election, the Thoroughbred Industries Brexit Steering Group and associated industries have been working towards the UK leaving the European Union on 31 January 2020 with a negotiated Withdrawal Agreement.
The Withdrawal Agreement has now been ratified, and provides for an implementation/transition period to at least 31 December 2020.
During the transition period from 1 February – 31 December 2020, arrangements relating to the movement of thoroughbreds and people will operate as they currently do. The existing Tripartite Agreement for thoroughbred movement remains in place.
We also strongly encourage European Union and European Economic Area nationals working in the industry to apply now for Settled Status beyond the end of the transition period. Support is available for staff who have any concerns.
More broadly our focus is now on the nature of the UK’s future relationship with the EU and how it impacts the racing and breeding industries. The UK Government has stated its ambition to negotiate a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement with the European Union, underpinned by high standards of animal welfare. The Steering Group welcomes and supports fully this approach.
Our priorities are:
- Maintenance of the free movement of the Thoroughbred horse across Europe
- Safeguarding the free movement of people working within the Thoroughbred industry as much as possible
- Ensure there are common technical, transport and taxation policies in order to assist with the above
Fuller guidance on these areas and the constructive and collaborative ongoing work being carried out is available in this update. In addition, the dedicated Brexit page on britishhorseracing.com has now been updated to reflect the current situation.
Julian Richmond-Watson, Chair of the Thoroughbred Industries Brexit Steering Group, said:
“As the Brexit negotiations move in to the second phase, our industry continues with an international outlook and the aim of avoiding any unnecessary barriers to trade or the movement of the thoroughbred.
“We will work alongside European and sector colleagues, and the UK Government, aiming to deliver a future relationship with the EU which will enhance our great industry, support our highly valued European employees, and raise the already high animal health and welfare standards we have in place.”
Notes to editors:
- The full Thoroughbred Industries Brexit Steering Group update can be found here.
The detailed Brexit page on the BHA’s website can be found here.
