TOWCESTER'S proposal to remove the use of the whip for anything other than corrective purposes in races at the track from October 5 will be looked at as part of an ongoing "wider review" of the rules relating to the whip, the British Horseracing Authority said on Friday.
A statement issued by Paul Struthers, head of communications for the BHA, also said that any changes to the use of the whip, such as those called for by Towcester, can be implemented only with "permission and agreement" of the BHA.
Struthers said: "We only received Towcester's request yesterday afternoon. This is certainly not something that can happen without the permission and agreement of the BHA."
According to the BHA, a review of the rules relating to the whip has been ongoing for some time and discussions with the RSPCA have already taken place.
Struthers also said that provisions have been made to take into account the views of those who watch and bet on racing. He said: "We decided to review our rules relating to acceptable use of the whip some time ago, and certainly before Aintree and the subsequent media interest. Towcester's request will be looked at as part of this wider review.
"The wide-ranging review will seek views and input from various sectors within the industry. It will alsotake into account the views of those who watch and bet on racing as well as wider public perception, through polling and a survey."
Although unable to say when the findings will be published, Struthers added: "How the whip is best regulated within racing for the good of the sport is a crucial issue for the sport to get to grips with, and it is vital we get it right."
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