Business as usual in a changing world
Sean Wensley said last month that a top priority for the BVA would be to seek clarity on how its members who are non-British EU citizens would be affected by Brexit.
Theresa May is set to take over as the UK's Prime Minister after David Cameron tenders his resignation to the Queen later on today.
After taking office, Mrs May will negotiate the terms of the UK's exit from the European Union and speculation has been rife about how Brexit will affect the country in general, as well as vets in particular.
As veterinary practices employ a great deal of EU graduates, there is much uncertainty about the future for non-British EU citizens working as vets and nurses in the UK. It is difficult to say what the long-term impacts will be, but RCVS members will be able to retain their status after the UK leaves the EU. However, registration does not give individuals the automatic right to work in the UK and much will depend on post-Brexit arrangements.
In these troubling and uncertain times, collaboration between members of the profession - and support for non-British EU citizens who in the UK and make a huge contribution to the profession - has never been more important.
Leading veterinary organisations such as the BVA, RCVS and NOAH have stated their intention to work closely with the government to ensure the veterinary voice is heard during negotiations, and that we continue to be collaborative, outward-looking and inclusive.
Sean Wensley said last month that a top priority for the BVA would be to seek clarity on how its members who are non-British EU citizens would be affected.
Undoubtedly, the decision to leave the EU comes with opportunities as well as challenges. Until negotiations begin, however, none can say for sure how the veterinary profession will be affected.
Despite the political turmoil that has ensued following the EU Referendum result, for vets, the crux of everyday life will continue to be the health and welfare of animals.
Joanne Webster, a professor of parasitic diseases at the RVC, has been elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS).
