§ 12. Dame Joan Vickersasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will introduce legislation to enable women trainers of horses to obtain a licence so that in the future they will be able to racehorses under their own names instead of, as at present, under that of a relative or employee.
§ Mr. George ThomasNo.
§ Dame Joan VickersIs the hon. Gentleman aware that that is a very disappointing reply, especially since we have just been told by his right hon. and learned Friend that this is the greatest democracy in the world? I understood that the present Government were against discrimination of any kind. If so, how do they justify that women can be racehorse owners, can lead in winning racehorses, and can—
§ Dame Joan Vickers—they can be jockeys in certain races, and can train horses, but cannot have licences in their own names? Surely there is a discrimination against women there?
§ Mr. ThomasMy right hon. and learned Friend and I would be the last to frustrate the legitimate ambitions of women, but the House should know that the regulation of horse racing is in the hands of the recently constituted Turf Authority together with the Jockey Club and the National Hunt Committee. My right hon. and learned Friend has no responsibility in this matter, so the hon. Lady should try elsewhere.
§ Mr. Hector HughesNotwithstanding the attempt by my hon. Friend to evade responsibility, does he not realise that this is an outmoded form of discrimination, especially having regard to the distinguished women trainers, women jockeys and huntswomen? Will he take steps to modernise the position?
§ Mr. ThomasMy hon. and learned Friend may be well assured that I am as aware as is my right hon. and learned Friend of the great part women play in our national life. We should like to help them but, as I said, this matter is riot really our responsibility.
§ Dame Joan Vickers.In view of the very unsatisfactory reply from the Minister, I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Adjournment.