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to preference very greatly exceed the rights of the public which now provides nearly all the money and most of the interest which over several decades has kept and is keeping the sport on a high level of prosperity. The conflicting claims to consideration of members and public requires the exercise of a balanced judgment. An assurance of an equitable adjustment over the years of these conflicting claims is necessary. 190. What is indicated as necessary in this respect is some at least partially independent authority with power to consider the administrative proposals and expenditure by clubs. Such an authority could also do much to offset the effects of the bias in favour of owners to which we have previously referred. Only those functions of clubs which they exercise free of any control by Conference need be affected. Any interference with the powers and authorities of either Conference would be wholly unjustified. Both have functioned with an efficiency, an impartiality, and a dignity which demands the highest commendation, and any interference with either would be not only unwise, but detrimental. 191. No such interference would be involved if, as we recommend, a Racing Advisory Board were constituted to advise the Minister on all topics pertaining to racing in both its forms. Such a body* could maintain contact with clubs and become seized of a knowledge of the affairs and circumstances of each. It could thus keep the Minister in touch with developments in a way that is not now possible. Its operation would, in particular, ensure expenditure when expenditure is required and for the purposes for which it is required. Generally, such a Board would tend to secure uniformity of administration throughout the country. Incidentally, it would also operate as a spur to progress and a restraint against unwise development. Its introduction would, we are convinced, be wholly beneficial. 192. We therefore recommend that such a Board be established. We suggest that it consist of a representative of the Racing Conference, a representative of the Trotting Conference, and of one member of the public, and an independent chairman appointed by the Minister. It should, we think, be made the function of the Board to make representations to the Minister as to — (а) What provision, having regard to its circumstances and the demands upon it, should be made by each club from time to time in the way of stand and other accommodation to enable the public to view the races in comfort and with reasonable protection against adverse weather conditions. (б) What amenities and conveniences, other than stand and seating accommodation, each club should from time to time provide for the public.
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