HRA director not expecting major changes to whip rules

Leading trainer and British Horseracing Authority director Mark Johnston does not anticipate the governing body to make huge changes to the new whip guidelines.

BHA officials agreed to meet representatives of the Professional Jockeys' Association in London today to discuss their grievances after a controversial first week.

A number of jockeys have fallen foul of the new rules since they were introduced last Monday, with Richard Hughes deciding to hand in his riding licence after picking up his second suspension of the week at Kempton on Thursday.

The debate was thrust back into the spotlight at Ascot on Saturday after Christophe Soumillon was found to have hit Qipco Champion Stakes winner Cirrus Des Aigles six times in the final furlong - once more than permitted.

The furious Belgian ace was not only handed a five-day suspension but also forced to forfeit his considerable percentage of the prize-money and his riding fee.

Johnston arrived at the BHA headquarters on Monday morning and asked if he was expecting a U-turn, he told Sky Sports News: "Frankly no, I'm not expecting that.

"I don't know what the jockeys are coming to say and we'll just have to take it as it comes.

"I'm not entirely surprised (by the reaction). I didn't know how the rules would be applied and I didn't know how the jockeys would take it. We'll just have to see what they have to say."

Representing the PJA at today's meeting are chief executive Kevin Darley, riders Ryan Moore, Frankie Dettori, Tony McCoy and Hughes, as well as trainer John Gosden.

The deputation arrived at BHA headquarters just before 12 noon.