44. Mr. W. E. Garrettasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if, in view of the probable end of the annual Grand National race, he will take steps to ensure its long term future.
§ 49. Mr. Farrasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if, in view of the difficulties facing the continuance of the Grand National at Aintree, he will take steps to help secure the future of the race.
§ 59. Mr. Pendryasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether, in view of the threatened closure of the Aintree racecourse, he will take steps to secure the future of the Grand National race.
§ Mr. MacfarlaneI am well aware of the speculation surrounding the future of this great race. The Aintree course is privately owned. Its management at present lies with Ladbrokes, and the race is run under the auspices of the Jockey Club. I understand that the Horserace Betting Levy Board is concerned about the future of the Grand National at Aintree and is considering ways of securing the future of the race. I can do little but keep in touch with those interested parties. What I cannot do is promise to underwrite financially the future of the course.