Ep 139 - Government rejects urgent levy reform

Nick is joined by Levy Board Chair, Paul Darling QC, to discuss the implications of Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston MP's indication to racing's stakeholders that he is "not convinced that immediate reform of the levy, either temporary or otherwise, is the right way to respond to the financial difficulties faced by the racing industry." In a subsequent letter, Huddleston has reinforced the government's position in the event of some stakeholder communication before Christmas. Later in the edition, RTE broadcaster Jane Mangan gives her take on the situation for amateur competitors in the sport and yesterday's action at Naas, while Keri Brion talks to Nick about America's bid to win the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham.