Racing: Foreign jockeys may face tighter restrictions

THE Department of Employment is to launch its first investigation into overseas jockeys riding in Britain, writes Tony Smurthwaite.

This first indication that the issue is causing concern outside the racing industry comes in the wake of news that a further Australian jockey, Jeff Penza, intends riding in Britain for Clive Brittain this summer, when Mick Dittman has a contract to partner the horses of Robert Sangster.

A Department of Employment spokesman confirmed yesterday that the matter is being looked at in the light of restrictions imposed in football where clubs are restricted to three foreign players in European matches.

'The Department is trying to arrange a meeting with the Jockey Club and Jockeys' Association as soon as possible to get this matter sorted out,' the spokesman added.

Britain has traditionally welcomed overseas jockeys and the present champion, Michael Roberts, is a South African. The Jockeys' Association is concerned that overseas riders could be taking valuable opportunities away from British riders. At present overseas riders are allowed a 30-day stay on a foreign riders' licence, but this ruling is one matter being examined today in the first meeting between the Jockeys' Association and the Jockey Club's licensing committee.

Devon and Cornwall police will today enlist the help of Martin Pipe in the investigation into the drugging of racehorses, in particular Pipe's Her Honour, found to have been doped when flopping at Kempton in January. Detective Superintendent Michael Walsh, the officer leading the inquiries, plans to meet Pipe this afternoon. The Jockey Club has disclosed that Her Honour was given a fast- acting tranquiliser, acetylpromazine, at Kempton.