Wales Plans to Be the First UK Nation to Outlaw Greyhound Racing

A ban on greyhound racing will take effect “as soon as practically possible” in Wales, a decision publicized by Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies. The Welsh government declared its intention during a session in the Senedd.

According to reports, the decision received extensive support from various political spectrums and animal welfare organizations. However, it has also drawn the criticism of bodies like the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) and the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC).

The Way Forward

The Welsh government conducted a comprehensive consultation process before deciding on a greyhound racing prohibition. Irranca-Davies explained that the process collected over 1,100 responses, two-thirds of which backed a phased ban on the sport. Animal rights groups like the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) and the Dog Trust also conducted campaign efforts calling for the ban.

“The cross-party backing and the public’s strong support reflect a clear mandate for this move,” explained Irranca-Davies, adding that they would prioritize the welfare of the animals and mitigate potential economic and community impacts.

An Implementation Group will oversee the discontinuation of greyhound racing. It will engage stakeholders and learn from nations like New Zealand that have already applied the ban. The group’s findings will lay the foundation for the legislature and practical aspects of the prohibition.

Applause On One Side

The announcement has sparked mixed reactions. On the one hand, it has gained praise from several welfare groups and political figures. Dog Trust CEO Owen Sharp applauded the decision, underscoring the fatalities and injuries endured by dogs in the sport across the UK. He added, “This ban represents a pivotal advancement in animal welfare, and we hope it sets a precedent for other regions.”

Disappointment On the Other

The Welsh government’s decision has also been met with criticism. The Greyhound Board of Great Britain argues that animal rights activism influenced the decision to ban the sport rather than concrete evidence.

BGC has also been critical of the move, stating that the decision was made to satisfy campaigners and is not evidence-based. A BGC spokesperson said, “Greyhound racing is a working-class sport, enjoyed by thousands, and this draconian move will cost jobs, hurt the economy, while depriving people of a long-established and legitimate source of joy.”