Wales set to become first UK nation to ban greyhound racing in its bid to tackle gambling harm

The Welsh Government has declared its intention to outlaw greyhound racing, making Wales the first country in the United Kingdom to do so.

Nearly two-thirds of respondents to a public consultation in favor of a phased ban supported the decision. More than 35,000 people signed a petition advocating for the sport's outlawing in Wales.

The ruling coincides with wider debates about welfare and gambling laws in Wales. A report on gambling harms was commissioned by Public Health Wales, which found that there are treatment service gaps and that the general public is not well-informed about the support networks that are available.

 

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The ban is in response to concerns about animal welfare and the high number of greyhounds that are injured or killed while racing. Animal welfare groups have welcomed the decision, while the greyhound racing industry has expressed disappointment.