The Herald Sun has reported that trainers have been incensed by a new racing integrity hotline created by Racing Victoria.

"The service, which is run by an independent company called STOPline and began operating yesterday, will allow the public to call in anonymously and report anything suspicious.

"STOPline acts as a conduit for reporting corrupt or improper conduct. It will pass on information to the RV chief investigator's office, which will determine if the matter should be referred to stewards."

What makes the introduction of the service rather odd is the existence of the Integrity Services Department at Racing Victoria which already allows people to report sensitive information. Perhaps understandably, a number of trainers have reacted angrily to the new service stating its existence suggests to the general public that malpractice is rife.

Whilst I am all for cracking down on unethical behaviours, personally I'd be happier seeing STOPline installed at the annual yearling sales. I imagine a few lines would be running hot re. claims of 'tainted or unethical behaviour'.