In response to the Rick Parry-led Sports Betting Integrity report published today, Nic Coward, Chief Executive of the British Horseracing Authority, said:
“The threat to sport from betting-related corruption is ever-present, and severe. Corruptors look to make financial gain through legally regulated markets, as well as illegal betting. The history of British Horseracing, with over £10 billion bet per annum through bookmakers and latterly exchanges, shows very starkly the threats. Racing had to develop sophisticated and comprehensive intelligence and investigation operations to try to combat the threat, and the sport has what many see as the world-leading experience and systems. That is why other sports have come to us, and we have been delighted to help them do what they can.
“When the new regulatory system for betting was put in place in Britain, tackling this issue was just not addressed as a priority. But as Rick Parry has set out today, it demands a “no compromise approach” by Government, the Gambling Commission and betting operators, as well as the sports themselves.
“The new Gambling Commission unit will inevitably be benchmarked against what we have in Racing. We have made it clear throughout that we will work with the Commission, police, sports, operators and Government to tackle this growing threat.”
For further information please contact Turia Tellwright, BHA Communications Officer, on 020 7152 0163
Notes to Editors:
1. The report, commissioned by Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe, recommends that a national cross-sports integrity unit be established to best tackle the threat of betting corruption in sport. It is available in full to download – http://www.culture.gov.uk/images/publications/reports_sports_betting_integrity_panel.pdf
2. Nic Coward was one of 13 members of the Panel, which also included BHA Director Ben Gunn. For full biographies of each Panel member visit DCMS press notice 093/09 – http://www.culture.gov.uk/reference_library/media_releases/6238.aspx
3. Further information on the report is available on the DCMS website – http://www.culture.gov.uk/reference_library/media_releases/6609.aspx while the Government’s response is available http://www.culture.gov.uk/reference_library/media_releases/6610.aspx
