PARLIAMENTARY EARLY DAY MOTION
FUTURE OF THE TOTE (No.2) (1 March 2011)

That this House is aware that the Government is currently considering the future ownership of the Tote organisation; is further aware that this body is responsible for the employment of over 400 full-time employees as well as large numbers of part-time employees, principally at its Wigan headquarters, in its high street betting shops and among its travelling racecourse staff who provide betting provision in facilities at the 60 racecourses spread across Great Britain; recalls that successive administrations have stated publicly that any decision on this matter will be made in the best interests of racing and that after liabilities at least 50 per cent. of all proceeds raised will be returned to racing; notes that the Tote Foundation bid has been developed by all the leading organisations within racing, including members and officials of the current Tote Board, the British Horseracing Authority, the Jockey Club and the Horseman's Group, which holds within its membership organisations representing owners, trainers, breeders, jockeys and stable staff and is supported overwhelmingly by all to take on the role of managing and developing the Tote's future; notes that, last year, the Tote provided 19 million to racing and believes that this continuing income is crucial to the sport; and calls on the Government to announce that it agrees with the overwhelming body of opinion of those who work within the industry, together with those who support racing and largely cause the generation of its income, and to announce a decision to transfer ownership of the Tote to the Tote Foundation.

Sponsored by:
Mr Laurence Robertson (Conservative)