Tory Peer’s Horse Among Favourites for Grand National
Monbeg Genius
A horse owned by Tory peer Michelle Mone and her husband is capturing attention as one of the top contenders for the upcoming Grand National. Monbeg Genius, reportedly purchased by Mone for £80,000 as a wedding gift for her husband Doug Barrowman, is currently holding odds of 16-1 to clinch victory in this prestigious race.
NCA Investigation and Frozen Assets
Despite the spotlight on Monbeg Genius’s racing prospects, the couple is under investigation by the National Crime Agency for alleged PPE fraud during the Covid pandemic. Assets worth approximately £75 million linked to Michelle Mone and Mr. Barrowman have been frozen since January. However, the British Horseracing Authority has confirmed that Monbeg Genius, an eight-year-old horse, remains unaffected by these legal issues.
Concerns and Potential Backlash
Horseracing experts are voicing concerns that a win by the couple’s horse could lead to negative repercussions. Peter Scargill from The Racing Post expressed apprehension, cautioning, “Please don’t let Monbeg Genius win this year’s race.” He highlighted the potential harm such an outcome could inflict on the racing industry.
Stance and Preparations
Regarding the ownership of the horse, Jockey Club Racecourses’ north-west regional director Dickon White emphasized that decisions are within the purview of the BHA, stating, “We just want the best horses running in the race.” Monbeg Genius’s trainer, Jonjo O’Neill, shared his satisfaction with the horse’s performance, stating, “I am getting on with my job and I will train the horse to the best of my ability.”
PPE Scandal and Legal Battle
Baroness Mone and Mr. Barrowman are embroiled in a scandal revealed by the Mirror, involving PPE contracts amounting to £200 million awarded to PPE Medpro in 2020. Despite Baroness Mone admitting to misleading information about her ties to the firm, she maintains that no wrongdoing was committed. Legal proceedings are ongoing, with the Department for Health pursuing PPE Medpro for over £130 million due to issues with gowns’ sterility.
Assets and Allegations
Assets worth millions reportedly flowing to Mr. Barrowman and trusts linked to the couple have faced restrictions following an application under the Proceeds of Crime Act. Acknowledging the asset restrictions, a spokesperson for Michelle Mone and Doug Barrowman stated, “Doug and Michelle did not contest the application and were happy to offer up these assets.”
Final Remarks
In a statement made to the BBC, the couple characterized themselves as “scapegoats” for the government’s PPE-related challenges. The Grand National, where Monbeg Genius aims to make a mark, is scheduled to take place at Aintree on April 13.
FAQs
What is the current odds for Monbeg Genius in the Grand National?
Monbeg Genius is currently holding odds of 16-1 to win the Grand National.
What legal issues are Michelle Mone and her husband facing?
Michelle Mone and her husband are under investigation by the National Crime Agency for alleged PPE fraud during the Covid pandemic.
Who confirmed that Monbeg Genius is not affected by the legal issues surrounding Michelle Mone and her husband?
The British Horseracing Authority has confirmed that Monbeg Genius, the horse owned by Michelle Mone and her husband, remains unaffected by the legal issues.
What concerns have horseracing experts raised regarding Monbeg Genius winning the Grand National?
Horseracing experts are worried that a victory by Monbeg Genius, owned by Michelle Mone and her husband, could lead to negative consequences and backlash in the racing industry.
What assets were frozen in relation to Michelle Mone and her husband?
Approximately £75 million of assets linked to Michelle Mone and her husband were frozen in January.
What statement did Michelle Mone make regarding the PPE scandal?
Michelle Mone expressed regret for providing false information about her connections to the PPE firm but maintains that she and her husband did not engage in any unlawful activities.
