Sir Keir's wife punting at Ascot while government threaten to destroy racing – it's D-Day and we need a leader

The Sun

2 days ago

IT'S apparently D-Day for British Racing in what appears to be a Brexit moment for the sport as its major power forces respond to proposals for radical change without really knowing what they are getting themselves into.
Sound familiar?
1
This is all to do with whether Labour peer Lord Allen is thrust into the position of BHA chairman.
Should he come or will he go now? That depends on how much everyone clashes!
Those considering Lord Allen's many demands - in order for him to take up the role - include the Racecourse Association, Racehorse Owners' Association, Thoroughbred Breeders' Association and Licensed personnel.
Lord Allen has basically said take my ideas or leave them and I won't bother with you all.
He doesn't need the money and he's not a massive horse racing fan.
As has so often been the case with those in charge at the BHA, it appears he's not too fussed about it.
We have got used to leaders coming, messing up a few things, and going in a fanfare of what a marvelous job they have done.
On ITV Racing's Opening Show on Saturday I asked four questions about Lord Allen and his objectives, and what help he might be.
Usually when I do that my phone goes mad with people answering my observations and putting me right. On this occasion it was silent.
Lord Allen and racing appear in favour of an independent BHA Board.
Indeed this seems to be an absolute necessity.
But no one has said who would be on it? I can't see how you could ever have one.
Someone please explain.
Who are you going to have - who is independent?
Secondly, in recent days the Jockey Club and Ascot have come out insisting Lord Allen must be appointed.
Have they done this knowing he won't join the BHA or he will?
If you know he's not going to be on board then it would look as though you wanted to do the right thing for the sport but others stopped you.
In some eyes that would give an organisation credit.
Equally if he did become BHA chairman you will have Lord Allen's backing.
It's clever if you think about it.
And trust me, behind the scenes, whatever anyone says, this is about individuals rather than the good of the sport.
It always will be and anyone who kids themselves otherwise is delusional.
If Lord Allen is the savior, why is racing in turmoil about a current new tax on the sport?
What is Lord Allen doing about it? Has he talked to Sir Keir Starmer? Again silence.
And finally once again, how is it with all the people in horse racing we have who love the game - from the King and Queen down - no one seems to get through to Sir Keir that he might be on the verge of destroying British Racing?
Sir Keir's wife, Victoria, was at Ascot on Saturday for the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes.
It seems quite bizarre to me when you think what Government is threatening to do.
Answers on a postcard please.
By the way, enjoy Glorious Goodwood. All the best coverage in The Sun!
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