Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

BVA welcomes government commitment to legislative reform
The BVA president called for a 'fit-for-purpose modern regulatory framework'.
The BVA president addressed vets, MPs and peers at BVA’s annual dinner.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has welcomed the government’s engagement with the veterinary profession as it addresses the reformation of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966.

Speaking at BVA’s annual Westminster Dinner, BVA president Elizabeth Mullineaux discussed the urgent need for updated legislation to regulate veterinary practices.

Dr Mullineaux described how the existing Veterinary Surgeons Act failed to regulate modern veterinary practices. Instead, she said it leaves veterinary surgeons and nurses accountable for business decisions outside of their control.

The speech also attacked the current legislation’s approach to the wider veterinary team. Dr Mullineaux said that it was ‘concerning’ that the veterinary nurse title is not protected, meaning that anyone can call themselves a veterinary nurse.

Dr Mullineaux said: “My presidential theme is ‘a profession that cares’. Vets not only care for animals, putting their health and welfare at the centre of everything we do; but we also care for each other, our teams and our clients.

“To continue caring for animals and the profession, we need a fit-for-purpose modern regulatory framework that recognises the importance of all members of the veterinary team and the modern structures of veterinary businesses.”

The BVA president urged guests, including veterinary professionals, MPs and other peers, to support the development of a new act.

Daniel Zeichner MP, minister of state of food security and rural affairs, said: “I think each [BVA] dinner I've been to, the Veterinary Surgeons Act has come up. We absolutely understand it.

“We’re engaging with you and with the other stakeholders from the RCVS, the BVNA, the Vet Schools Council, to look at how we can go about reforming the VSA and that core working group is looking at how changes to policy can support the profession, animals and consumer in a future facing and future proof way.”

Among the other topics in Dr Mullineaux’s speech was the Kept Animal Bill, which is now being introduced through independent legislation.

This includes the Animal Welfare (Import of Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) which restricts the importation and non-commercial movement of such animals. This would mean a ban on the import of dogs with cropped ears and the introduction of pre-import testing.

Dr Mullineaux said: “We have worked with our colleague Danny Chambers, veterinary surgeon and MP, who introduced this Bill with the support of Neil Hudson MP, another veterinary colleague.

“We would urge other MPs and Lords to support this Bill as it goes through both Houses.”

Image © BVA

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.