Brexit advice to racing industry from BHA says no change to horse movements in 2020

Post-Brexit the movement of thoroughbreds and people will operate as normal, the British Horseracing Authority said earlier.

The sport's governing body has reassured the industry that the Tripartite Agreement, which covers the UK, France and Ireland, will continue throughout 2020 when Britain leaves the EU on January 31.

In advice to employees from the BHA, European workers at stables across the country are being encouraged to apply for Settled Status before the end of the year.

A BHA statement said: "During the transition period from 1 February – 31 December 2020, arrangements relating to the movement of thoroughbreds and people will operate as they currently do.

"The existing Tripartite Agreement for thoroughbred movement remains in place."

The Thoroughbred Industries Brexit Steering Group plans to ensure there are technical, transport and taxation policies to assist the movement of horses and people.

Irish horses come over to compete at Cheltenham and Aintree every year. Tiger Roll is pictured winning the 2019 Grand National (Getty Images)

Chair of the group, Julian Richmond-Watson, said: "As the Brexit negotiations move in to the second phase, our industry continues with an international outlook and the aim of avoiding any unnecessary barriers to trade or the movement of the thoroughbred.

“We will work alongside European and sector colleagues, and the UK Government, aiming to deliver a future relationship with the EU which will enhance our great industry, support our highly valued European employees, and raise the already high animal health and welfare standards we have in place.”