Overturn the New Whip Rules Before They Kill British Racing

Background: The new whip rules came into force today. Introduced by the British Horse Racing Authority (BHA) they impose harsh penalties for use of the whip outside the rules. Guidelines and common sense set out in the old rules have been removed and replaced by strict rules where there is no discretion. Even if a jockey is forced to use his whip outside the rules to ensure the safety of himself, his horse and others in the field. The whip can now only be used a maximum of seven times in a Flat race and eight times in a jumps race (and only five times in the last furlong/after the last obstacle). So a jockey riding in a three mile steeple chase will only be able to use his whip one more time than a jockey riding in a 6f flat race. Can this really be right? The penalties imposed on jockies has increased with a minimum five day ban and forfeit of riding fee and share of prize money. We the undersigned petition the BHA to act now and review the new rules and engage with all parties to come to a sensible solution which protects not only the welfare of the horses but the future of racing. The new rules simply cannot be allowed to continue as they are!