BHA calls for more government support as Sunak unveils new job support scheme

The BHA responded to chancellor Rishi Sunak's new jobs support scheme on Thursday by insisting further financial help from the government is still essential, but champion Flat trainer John Gosden warned against relying on the government for support.

Coronavirus-related restrictions put in place by prime minister Boris Johnson this week included a likely six-month postponement on the return of fans to sporting events, which the BHA described as a "severe threat" to the future of the racing industry.

Sunak, whose constituency includes the training centre of Middleham in North Yorkshire, announced new aid measures on Thursday, saying the government will pay a maximum of 22 per cent of workers' wages for the next six months, replacing the furlough scheme that ends on October 31.