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New proposals to protect Scotland’s seas
The four new MPAs would make Scotland the first country in the world to provide designated areas for protecting minke whales.
Consultation on four new marine protected areas

The Scottish Government is proposing four new marine protected areas (MPAs), which would make it the first country in the world to provide designated areas for the protection of minke whale and basking sharks.

A 12-week consultation on the proposed MPAs was launched on World Oceans Day (8 June).

Covering a combined area of more than 5,000 square miles, the MPAs would also protect Risso’s dolphins and a range of biodiversity and geographical features.

Scotland’s MPA network currently covers 22 per cent of the country’s seas and consists of 231 sites. It supports nature conservation, protects historic marine sites and helps develop new approaches to marine management.

Mairi Gougeon, Scotland’s minister for the natural environment, said: “It is our duty to help protect and enhance our marine environment so that it remains a prized asset for future generations. Not only are they fundamental to our way of life, they provide habitats for a huge diversity of marine wildlife and it is vital that we ensure appropriate protection for them.

“Scotland’s seas account for 61 per cent of the UK’s waters and are internationally recognised as being important for whales, dolphins and basking sharks. These MPAs would offer additional levels of protection to these species, and ensure the MPA network is fully representative of Scotland’s marine diversity.”

The government is asking people to share their views on the proposals by taking part in the consultation.

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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.