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<p>The Government is keen that the welfare needs of racehorses are well met, both
during their racing lives and afterwards. The British Horseracing Authority (BHA)
is responsible for the safety of racehorses at British racecourses and work alongside
the RSPCA and World Horse Welfare to make horseracing as safe as possible.</p><p>
</p><p>However, both I and the BHA consider that more can be done to make horseracing
safer which is why I have been holding regular discussions with the BHA about this.
Most recently on the 14 May, I met with the BHA as well as the new independent Chair
of the BHA’s newly appointed Horse Welfare Board. This was a constructive meeting
where the number of fatalities of racehorses was acknowledged and both sides agreed
that further action is required to tackle avoidable harm and make the sport safer.</p><p>
</p><p>The Board committed to doing all it can to improve welfare outcomes. I stressed
the need for the BHA to develop a robust action plan that will deliver tangible results
and intend to stay in regular contact with the industry to continue to press for improvements
in racehorse welfare.</p>
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