§ Mr. Peartasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what proposals have been made by the Horserace Betting Levy Board for a change of policy in regard to the National Stud; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BrookeThe Board have sought my approval of a proposal to discontinue the keeping of brood mares at the Stud and to concentrate on top class stallions.
The purpose of the Stud, as recommended by the Loraine Committee and accepted by the Government, is to help to maintain the high standard of the English thoroughbred horse which has gained it a worldwide reputation. The Committee recommended the keeping of mares in order to ensure continuity in breeding of the highest quality. Since they did so, conditions in the private breeding industry have changed, and all the great blood lines of mares are now well represented in it. After full investigation and consideration, and after consulting the industry, the Levy Board have concluded that the danger of these lines ceasing to be preserved in private studs is remote; and that the right policy is to concentrate the Stud's resources on keeping stallions. The Board will purchase, or acquire shares in, high class stallions in order to prevent their export and to make their services available to British breeders.
I have approved the Board's proposals.