Union want halt to Dunne probe after BHA leak

THE Professional Jockeys Association has demanded that the BHA halt disciplinary action against jump jockey Robbie Dunne because leaked confidential documents mean a fair hearing is impossible. Over the past two weekends, detail of bullying and harassment allegations made against Dunne (below) by Bryony Frost, Britain’s most successful female jump jockey, have been published in a Sunday newspaper — along with a charge letter stating that Dunne faced formal charges including ‘conduct prejudicial to the integrity or good reputation’ of the sport. In a strongly-worded statement, the PJA said this information should only have been available to the BHA, Dunne and his legal advisers. The BHA have reported themselves to the Information Commissioners Office over the data leak, the source of which has yet to be identified. Racing’s ruling body have also been criticised by the PJA for the time they are taking to conclude the Dunne-Frost case, with Frost submitting statements to the BHA in October last year. The leaked 120-page BHA documents detailed incidents which took place in July last year. The fall-out from the case has also led to wider comment about the culture within the weighing room. The PJA said the negative headlines had upset members, particularly causing frustration among female members. PJA chief executive Paul Struthers said: ‘When serious allegations are made it is vital that they are investigated thoroughly and speedily. ‘Equally, an individual investigated for potential offences under the Rules of Racing is entitled to be subjected to a fair process and have a fair hearing. ‘It is surely now impossible for that to happen in this case, however unsatisfactory that is for both parties.’ The PJA published a code of conduct in May. They said they expected members to abide by this code to ensure that the sport welcomed everyone, and to ensure individuals are held to account against a set of rules and codes of expected behaviour. Struthers added: ‘Any individual subjected to behaviour that might constitute a breach of the Rules of Racing or the PJA’s code of conduct must have the right to pursue a complaint and that right must be respected. The PJA has no toleration of bullying and does not, and will not, stand idly by when it becomes aware of such conduct.’ The BHA declined to comment last night.