Racing Steering Group Backs Government Plan for Coronavirus

Following the publication of the government action plan published on Mar. 3, the British Racing Steering Group on COVID-19 is encouraging all businesses and employers who are part of the racing industry to follow the appropriate guidelines releases in the action plan. The plan details phases of the government's response to COVID-19, with an emphasis on the steps necessary to contain and delay the disease.

British racing has been in regular contact with DCMS and DEFRA over the past two weeks to keep them informed of the racing's industry's developing plans and the potential impact of COVID 19 on the sport and the industry. The Prime Minister said on Monday that it was 'business as usual' and the racing industry continues to operate on this basis.

The Racing Steering Group is currently planning for all phases of the government response and is in touch with the regulatory bodies representing different parts of the racing industry.

BHA Chief Executive Nick Rust, who chairs the COVID 19 Group, said, “The government's action plan is a good guide to how the government's response may develop over the coming weeks and months. That's why I'd encourage all businesses and employers working in racing to read it and consider the potential impacts on them and their staff. We want to do our very best to look after racing's customers and the people who work in our industry so that we can minimise the risks to human health and the potential disruption to racing and to normal life.

“We continue to encourage our customers and all those working in racing to follow the guidance from Public Health England as this is the best way to contain the spread of COVID-19. The employers in our industry do a great job in providing for their staff and we know that many have taken steps already in line with government guidance.

“The industry's COVID 19 group is sharing this guidance with the organisations who represent the different parts of racing and identifying particular issues that may apply to them, whether that is for racecourses or those who breed, train and look after our horses. We want all those involved in British racing to be as well-prepared as possible.”