Written question asked by James Paice (Conservative) on Wednesday, 2 May 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 9 May 2001. It was answered by Mike O'Brien (Labour) on Wednesday, 9 May 2001 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if it is his policy that the Horserace Betting Levy Board will not be abolished until alternative funding arrangements are agreed by both the racing industry and the betting industry.

Answer: Mr. Paice: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if it is his policy that the Horserace Betting Levy Board will not be abolished until alternative funding arrangements are agreed by both the racing industry and the betting industry. [160673] Mr. Mike O'Brien: Our stated intention is to abolish the statutory levy on horserace betting, on the basis that commercial agreements between horseracing and other industries, including bookmaking, are capable of producing sufficient income for racing to flourish as a national sport without the need for such a levy. We would expect to see discussions on future funding arrangements make progress, but introduction of the necessary legislation is not conditional on the conclusion of commercial agreements.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 368 c166W; 160673
Session: 2000-01
Subjects: Betting Finance Horserace Betting Levy Board Horse racing Gambling Taxation
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk