Dear Constituent,
Thank you for getting in touch to share your concerns about greyhound racing.
As someone who cares about animal welfare, I understand the strength of feeling about this topic. The welfare of all animals is something I take seriously.
Particularly in light of the statistics you’ve shared, it is right that we scrutinise the impact of this sport and ensure that the highest standards of care and accountability are in place. Under the Animal Welfare Act, those who fail in their duty of care to greyhounds can face prosecution, and the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) also has powers to take enforcement action. In 2021, the law was strengthened to increase the maximum sentence for animal cruelty from six months to five years.
The regulations governing greyhound racing were reviewed in 2016, and while they were found to be broadly effective, the previous Government worked with the GBGB to address areas where improvements were needed including: publishing annual data on injuries, euthanasia, and retirements, and improving welfare standards at kennels. The GBGB’s long-term welfare strategy is intended to protect greyhounds throughout their lives, not just during their racing careers, and current Government has confirmed it is continuing to monitor this work. If further measures and protections are required, I hope that the Government will consider options which are targeted, effective, and proportionate.
You also mentioned the role of charities like Blue Cross. I appreciate the work they do and will certainly keep their views in mind. I believe it’s important that all voices are heard in this debate, especially those advocating for animal welfare.
On the funding side, the British Greyhound Racing Fund, supported by a voluntary levy from bookmakers, plays a key role in maintaining welfare standards. Around 95% of licensed betting operators now contribute, and I continue to encourage any remaining bookmakers to do the same. The Government must ensure that the voluntary contributions reflect the benefits the betting industry derives from Greyhound Racing as a betting product, keeping in mind the important role the levy has in supporting the growth and sustainability of the sport.
I am aware of the Welsh Government’s recent decision to move towards a ban on greyhound racing. While I understand the concerns that have led to this, I worry that such a move could have unintended consequences, particularly for the charities and rehoming organisations that rely on the levy to support former racing dogs.
I appreciate your passion and your concern for the welfare of greyhounds. Please be assured that I will continue to follow this issue and support measures that genuinely improve the lives of these animals.
Thank you again for getting in contact.
Yours sincerely,
Richard Fuller MP