New boss Lord Allen to take reins of British racing as he says ‘work to do' to secure sport's future
FRESH START New boss Lord Allen to take reins of British racing as he says 'work to do' to secure sport's future
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THE new boss of British racing Lord Allen says there is 'work to do' - as his position in charge of the sport was finally confirmed.
The Labour peer will start in his new role on September 1, having originally been in line to begin on June 2.
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Horse racing has seen growing attendances but faces strong headwinds in the shape of potentially increased taxation and the threat to jobs and livelihoods
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His tenure was delayed as the BHA said Lord Allen wanted to 'continue meeting stakeholders to better inform his vision for the sport'.
After a lengthy consultation process his position was made official on Monday evening.
A BHA statement on Monday evening said: "Lord Allen of Kensington will start work in his post as Chair of the British Horseracing Authority from 1 September, it was confirmed following a meeting of the organisation's Board.
"The BHA Board affirmed its commitment to implementing governance reforms including a fully independent Board following constructive discussions.
"The Board met in London on Monday to consider Lord Allen's response to submissions from shareholders regarding proposed governance changes.
"As a result of these submissions, it was today agreed that work should now start towards the establishment of a single independent board of directors.
"This will oversee a single BHA executive led by a CEO.
"The agreement means Lord Allen will now take up his post from the start of September.
"The incoming Chair and the Board will now begin the next steps towards creating an independent Board, including experienced individuals from the industry, through a period of transition and subject to ratification by the members."
David Jones, Chair of the BHA's Nominations Committee and Interim BHA Chair said: "The BHA Board has made clear its commitment to pressing ahead with the establishment of an independent Board of Directors.
"We look forward to working with Lord Allen to support the industry as it takes this important step forward towards a strong future."
While new chief Lord Allen said: "I am delighted we have agreed to a process towards a new independent BHA Board, and I look forward to formally starting in September.
"Horseracing has a strong future. There is work to do, but I am in no doubt as to the passion and commitment of the many thousands of people who make up our industry."
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