Overhaul urged of racing, trotting

Press, 2 July 1983, Page 3

Overhaul urged of racing, trotting

PA Wellington This year’s racing and trotting conferences are being urged by the Minister of Internal Affairs, Mr Highet, to adopt a programme of change so that their industries can get financial relief. Speaking at the trotting club’s conference at Napier, Mr Highet said that he now had before him the “bestreasoned case for financial relief that I have had during my term of office.” He said that before he retired from politics next year he wanted to persuade the Government that relief be given urgent and serious consideration. The caucus wants the conferences to agree first to an industry overhaul al-

ready agreed by the three codes and the Racing Authority. The authority would be given what departmental officials said is slightly more power under the changes. Some caucus members have expressed concern about the effect on local clubs. The department is considering possible legislative changes. Mr Highet said the last relief given to the industry came from punters. “It is my frank view that further relief from this source is just not on,” ;;e said. Mr Highet said he was disappointed when he took the proposed changes to the caucus that there were

some doubts as to whether they should go ahead without full consideration by the two conferences. “From a caucus discussion when I outlined these proposals it was decided that all member clubs should have the opportunity of making this decision at their annual conferences. “I earnestly hope that clubs will consider these proposals in a responsible way and back up the actions their executives have already taken.” “If these annual conferences turn down the recommendations of the executives of the three codes. I will be put in an impossible situation to argue the industry’s case before the Cabinet,” Mr Highet said.