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Views sought on new code of practice for pig welfare
The new Code aims to give pig farmers the latest guidance on current legislation.
Code reflects latest veterinary and scientific knowledge

Defra has launched a consultation into plans for a new statutory code of practice for the welfare of pigs.

The existing code provides keepers of pigs with guidance on how to comply with current welfare legislation. However, it has not been updated since it was published in 2003.

Defra proposes to repeal the current statutory Code of Recommendations for the Welfare of Livestock: Pigs (2003) and to replace it with a new statutory code.

The aim of this new code is to give farmers the latest guidance on current legislation, reflect the latest in veterinary and scientific knowledge and present this in a clear and relevant way.

The consultation is seeking views on whether and how well the draft statutory code, published with this consultation, achieves these aims.

The consultation will run until 9 March 2018 and can be found at https://consult.defra.gov.uk/animal-health-and-welfare/consultation-on-pig-a-draft-code-of-practice/consultation/intro/

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BSAVA partners with BVA Live 2026

News Story 1
 BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.

The organisation will be supporting BVA Live's Clinical Abstracts programme, showcasing selected abstracts of veterinary research throughout the event.

The clinical abstracts can be on any small animal veterinary subject, and must be based on research undertaken in industry, practice or academia. Abstracts can be presented in poster or oral formats.

Submissions will open on 15th December 2025, and close on 6th March 2026. You can register interest here. 

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Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.