The Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) is a non-departmental public body of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport in the United Kingdom. It is responsible for collecting a statutory levy, known as the Horserace Betting Levy, from horseracing bookmakers and the Tote successor company to support the horseracing industry. The Board also has a regulatory role in ensuring that the industry operates fairly and in compliance with the law.
The HBLB was established in 1961 to provide financial support to the horseracing industry, which was struggling at the time. The levy is collected from bookmakers and the Tote successor company, and the funds are distributed to various areas of the industry, including prize money, breed improvement and preservation, veterinary research, and education. The Board also has a responsibility to ensure that the industry operates fairly and in compliance with the law, and it works closely with other regulatory bodies to achieve this.
Key Takeaways
- The HBLB is a non-departmental public body responsible for collecting the Horserace Betting Levy from bookmakers and the Tote successor company to support the horseracing industry.
- In addition to its financial role, the Board also has a regulatory responsibility to ensure that the industry operates fairly and in compliance with the law.
- The funds collected by the HBLB are distributed to various areas of the industry, including prize money, breed improvement and preservation, veterinary research, and education.
Overview of the Horserace Betting Levy Board
The Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) is a non-departmental public body that was established by the Betting Levy Act 1961. The HBLB is responsible for collecting a statutory levy known as the Horserace Betting Levy from horseracing bookmakers and the Tote successor company. The levy is then used to fund the horseracing industry in the UK.
Statutory Establishment and Objectives
The HBLB is a UK statutory body that carries out its duties under the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act 1963. The Board is required by primary legislation to collect the statutory levy from bookmakers and betting exchange providers. The funds collected are then used to support the horseracing industry in the UK.
The objectives of the HBLB are to provide financial support to the horseracing industry and to promote the development and improvement of horseracing in the UK. The Board is also responsible for promoting the interests of the horseracing industry and for ensuring the proper regulation of horseracing in the UK.
Structure and Governance
The HBLB is a non-departmental public body of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport in the United Kingdom. The Board is made up of 12 members who are appointed by the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. The members of the Board are appointed based on their knowledge and experience in the horseracing industry.
The Board is responsible for the overall management and direction of the HBLB. The Board is supported by a number of committees, including the Finance Committee, the Levy Board Committee, and the Racing Industry Committee. These committees are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the HBLB and for ensuring that the Board is fulfilling its statutory obligations.
In conclusion, the Horserace Betting Levy Board is a UK statutory body that is responsible for collecting a statutory levy from horseracing bookmakers and the Tote successor company. The funds collected are then used to support the horseracing industry in the UK. The Board is a non-departmental public body of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and is responsible for promoting the interests of the horseracing industry and for ensuring the proper regulation of horseracing in the UK.
Financial Aspects of the HBLB
Levy Yield and Collection
The Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) is required by the Betting Levy Act 1961 to collect a statutory levy, known as the Horserace Betting Levy, from horseracing bookmakers and the Tote successor company. The levy is calculated as a percentage of the bookmakers’ gross profits from horserace betting in Great Britain. The levy yield is then used to fund the horseracing industry in Great Britain.
Allocation of Funds
The HBLB deploys the levy income through grants in key areas. In 2022/23, its prize money contribution was, as usual, the largest single item of expenditure, accounting for over 80% of the total expenditure. The Board works closely with Racing and Betting to ensure that the funds are allocated in accordance with HBLB’s statutory duties.
Financial Management during the COVID-19 Outbreak
The COVID-19 outbreak has had a significant impact on the horseracing industry in Great Britain. The HBLB has been monitoring the situation closely insofar as it is affecting levy yield. The Board is liaising with the Government and the industry to ensure that the impact on revenue is minimized.
During the pandemic, the HBLB has been confronted with many new challenges requiring agile and innovative solutions. The Board has recognized its responsibility to manage the levy income effectively and efficiently. The HBLB has continued to allocate funds to the horseracing industry, including prize money contributions, fixture funding, capital projects, and charitable donations.
Overall, the HBLB has shown a confident and knowledgeable approach to financial management, ensuring that the levy income is used to support the horseracing industry in Great Britain in a responsible and sustainable way.
Regulatory Role and Responsibilities
The Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) is a statutory body in the UK that was established by the Betting Levy Act 1961. The HBLB is responsible for regulating bookmakers and ensuring compliance with the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act 1963 (as amended). The HBLB’s statutory objectives are to promote and develop the horseracing industry, to ensure that the sport is conducted fairly and with integrity, and to protect the interests of the betting public.
Regulation of Bookmakers
The HBLB regulates bookmakers by collecting a statutory levy, known as the Horserace Betting Levy, from horseracing bookmakers and the Tote successor company. The levy is collected to fund the horseracing industry, including the improvement of horseracing facilities, the development of the sport, and the promotion of horseracing events. The HBLB also regulates bookmakers by ensuring that they comply with the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act 1963 (as amended).
Compliance and Enforcement
The HBLB is responsible for ensuring compliance with the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act 1963 (as amended). The HBLB has the power to investigate and prosecute bookmakers who do not comply with the law. The HBLB also has the power to impose fines and sanctions on bookmakers who breach the law. The HBLB works closely with other regulatory bodies, such as the Gambling Commission, to ensure that bookmakers operate fairly and with integrity.
In summary, the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) is a statutory body in the UK that regulates bookmakers and ensures compliance with the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act 1963 (as amended). The HBLB collects a statutory levy, known as the Horserace Betting Levy, from horseracing bookmakers and the Tote successor company to fund the horseracing industry. The HBLB’s statutory objectives are to promote and develop the horseracing industry, to ensure that the sport is conducted fairly and with integrity, and to protect the interests of the betting public.
Support for the Horseracing Industry
The Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) is a statutory body that collects a levy from bookmakers and betting exchange providers. This levy is used to support the horseracing industry in the UK. The HBLB provides funding for various aspects of the industry, including race prize money, capital projects, and integrity services.
Funding for Race Prize Money
One of the main ways in which the HBLB supports the horseracing industry is by providing funding for race prize money. This funding helps to ensure that races in the UK are competitive and attract top-quality horses and jockeys. The HBLB also provides funding for specific races, such as the Top 10 Betting Races, which are some of the most popular races in the UK.
Capital Projects and Infrastructure
The HBLB also provides funding for capital projects and infrastructure. This includes funding for racecourse improvements, such as new grandstands, stables, and other facilities. The HBLB also provides funding for training and education, which helps to ensure that the horseracing industry in the UK remains competitive and up-to-date.
Integrity Services and Racecourse Safety
The HBLB provides funding for integrity services, which includes the testing of horses for performance-enhancing drugs and other substances. The HBLB also provides funding for racecourse safety, which includes the provision of medical facilities and other safety measures.
In conclusion, the Horserace Betting Levy Board provides crucial support for the horseracing industry in the UK. Its funding for race prize money, capital projects, and integrity services helps to ensure that the industry remains competitive and attracts top-quality horses and jockeys.
Educational and Veterinary Initiatives
The Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) is committed to supporting the education and training of individuals involved in the horse racing industry. The HBLB recognizes the importance of providing industry-specific training and development programs to ensure that the industry remains competitive and sustainable.
Training and Development Programmes
The HBLB provides funding for various training and development programs that aim to improve the skills and knowledge of individuals involved in the horse racing industry. These programs cover a wide range of topics, including horse care, stable management, and racecourse operations.
The HBLB also provides support for apprenticeships and work-based learning programs. These programs enable individuals to gain valuable hands-on experience and to develop the skills necessary to progress in their careers.
Research in Veterinary Science
The HBLB is committed to supporting research in veterinary science to improve the health and welfare of horses involved in the horse racing industry. The HBLB provides funding for research projects that aim to improve the understanding of equine diseases and to develop new treatments and therapies.
The HBLB also provides funding for education and training programs for veterinary professionals. These programs enable veterinary professionals to stay up-to-date with the latest research and developments in equine medicine.
Overall, the HBLB’s commitment to education, training, and research in veterinary science demonstrates its dedication to improving the horse racing industry and ensuring the welfare of horses involved in the sport.
Breed Improvement and Preservation
The Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) recognises the importance of preserving and improving the breeds of horses used in horse racing. The HBLB takes steps to support the breeding and development of thoroughbred horses in Great Britain.
Support for Thoroughbred Breeding
The HBLB provides support for the breeding of thoroughbred horses through the Owners and Breeders Scheme, Jump Breeders Prizes, and Breed Society Funding. These schemes are designed to encourage the breeding of high-quality horses and to ensure that the breeding industry in Great Britain remains competitive.
The Owners and Breeders Scheme provides financial support to owners and breeders of thoroughbred horses. The scheme offers a range of benefits, including prize money for winning horses, grants for veterinary care, and funding for research into equine health and welfare.
The Jump Breeders Prizes scheme is designed to encourage the breeding of high-quality jump horses. The scheme offers substantial prizes to breeders of horses that win certain races, which can help to offset the costs of breeding and training horses.
The HBLB also provides funding to breed societies that promote the breeding of thoroughbred horses. This funding is used to support a range of activities, including research into equine health and welfare, the development of breeding programmes, and the provision of education and training to breeders.
Through these schemes, the HBLB plays an important role in supporting the breeding and development of thoroughbred horses in Great Britain. By providing financial support and promoting best practices in breeding, the HBLB helps to ensure that the horse racing industry in Great Britain remains competitive and sustainable.
Public and Industry Engagement
The Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) is committed to engaging with both the public and the horseracing industry to ensure that its policies and decisions are transparent and well-understood. The HBLB recognizes the importance of effective communication and stakeholder engagement in building trust and confidence.
Communications and Website Information
The HBLB’s website is a key source of information for stakeholders and the public. The website provides details on the HBLB’s role, responsibilities, and activities, as well as guidance notes and business plans. The website is updated regularly to ensure that stakeholders have access to the most up-to-date information.
In addition to the website, the HBLB communicates with stakeholders via email and other channels. The HBLB is committed to responding to stakeholder queries and concerns in a timely and professional manner.
Stakeholder Relations and Meetings
The HBLB engages with stakeholders through a variety of channels, including regular meetings with key industry stakeholders. The HBLB also consults with stakeholders on key policy decisions and initiatives.
The HBLB’s stakeholder engagement activities are guided by the principles of transparency, openness, and inclusivity. The HBLB recognizes the importance of engaging with a broad range of stakeholders to ensure that its policies and decisions reflect the needs and interests of the entire horseracing industry.
In summary, the HBLB is committed to engaging with the public and the horseracing industry to ensure that its policies and decisions are transparent, well-understood, and reflect the needs and interests of the industry. The HBLB’s website and stakeholder engagement activities are key tools in achieving this goal.
Operational Planning and Assessment
Annual Business Planning
The Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) engages in annual business planning to ensure that it meets its statutory responsibilities. This planning includes setting objectives, priorities, and targets for the year ahead. The HBLB also consults with stakeholders, including horse racing industry representatives, to ensure that its business plan is aligned with industry needs and priorities.
The HBLB’s business plan includes a budget that outlines how the statutory levy will be collected and distributed. This budget is reviewed annually, and adjustments are made as necessary to ensure that the HBLB is meeting its statutory obligations.
Performance Assessment and Reporting
The HBLB regularly assesses its performance to ensure that it is meeting its statutory responsibilities and achieving its objectives. This assessment includes monitoring the collection and distribution of the statutory levy, as well as the impact of the HBLB’s activities on the horse racing industry.
The HBLB reports on its performance annually, providing stakeholders with information on the collection and distribution of the statutory levy, as well as the HBLB’s activities and achievements. This reporting includes financial statements, which are audited by an independent auditor, and a performance report, which provides an overview of the HBLB’s activities and achievements.
The HBLB’s performance assessment and reporting processes are designed to ensure transparency and accountability, and to provide stakeholders with the information they need to understand the HBLB’s activities and achievements.
Overall, the HBLB’s operational planning and assessment processes are designed to ensure that the statutory levy is collected and distributed in a transparent and accountable manner, and that the HBLB is meeting its statutory responsibilities. The HBLB’s annual business planning and performance assessment and reporting processes are key components of this approach, ensuring that the HBLB is able to adapt to changing circumstances and meet the needs of the horse racing industry.
Financial Support Mechanisms
The Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) is responsible for managing and distributing financial support to the horseracing industry. The Board collects a statutory levy from bookmakers and betting exchange providers, which is then used to fund a range of initiatives aimed at supporting the industry.
Loans and Grants
One of the ways in which the HBLB provides financial support is through loans and grants. These are available to racecourses and other industry stakeholders to help fund capital projects, such as the construction of new facilities or the refurbishment of existing ones. The Board also provides loans to help fund the purchase of racehorses or to support breeding programmes.
To be eligible for funding, applicants must demonstrate that their project will have a positive impact on the horseracing industry and that it is financially viable. The Board will consider a range of factors when assessing applications, including the potential economic benefits of the project and the level of support it has from other industry stakeholders.
Managing Paying Crowds and Revenues
Another way in which the HBLB provides financial support is by helping racecourses to manage paying crowds and revenues. The Board provides funding to help improve facilities and infrastructure at racecourses, such as the installation of new betting terminals or the construction of new grandstands.
The Board also provides funding to support initiatives aimed at increasing attendance at race meetings and improving the overall experience for racegoers. This includes funding for marketing and promotional activities, as well as for initiatives aimed at improving customer service and the quality of food and drink available at racecourses.
Overall, the HBLB plays an important role in providing financial support to the horseracing industry. Through its loans and grants, as well as its support for initiatives aimed at managing paying crowds and revenues, the Board helps to ensure that the industry remains sustainable and continues to contribute to the UK economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary functions of the Horse Racing Betting Levy Board?
The Horse Racing Betting Levy Board (HBLB) is a UK statutory body that is responsible for collecting a statutory levy, known as the Horserace Betting Levy, from horseracing bookmakers and the Tote successor company. The primary functions of the HBLB include the distribution of funds to support the horseracing industry and the promotion of the sport.
How does the Betting Levy Act 1961 govern the operations of the Levy Board?
The operations of the HBLB are governed by the Betting Levy Act 1961. This act requires the HBLB to collect a statutory levy from bookmakers and betting exchange providers. The act also outlines the responsibilities of the HBLB, including the distribution of funds to support the horseracing industry and the promotion of the sport.
What are the HBLB Codes of Practice and how do they impact racecourse betting compliance?
The HBLB has developed a set of codes of practice to ensure that racecourse betting is conducted in a fair and transparent manner. These codes of practice cover a range of areas, including the operation of betting shops, the conduct of bookmakers, and the handling of disputes. Compliance with these codes of practice is essential for bookmakers and racecourse operators to maintain their licenses.
In what ways does the Horse Racing Commission collaborate with the Levy Board?
The Horse Racing Commission is responsible for regulating the horseracing industry in the UK. The HBLB collaborates with the commission to ensure that the industry is regulated in a fair and transparent manner. This collaboration includes the development of rules and regulations, the monitoring of compliance, and the enforcement of penalties for non-compliance.
How do the biggest betting races in the UK contribute to the Levy Board’s funds?
The biggest betting races in the UK, including the Grand National and the Derby, contribute significantly to the HBLB’s funds. Bookmakers are required to pay a levy on the bets placed on these races, which is then distributed to support the horseracing industry.
What are the procedures for accessing the HBLB online services through the HBLB login portal?
To access the HBLB’s online services, users must first register for an account through the HBLB login portal. Once registered, users can access a range of services, including the submission of levy returns, the payment of levies, and the application for funding. The HBLB provides comprehensive guidance to help users navigate these services.
