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AMTRA speaks of growing support for RAMA title
Stephen Dawson, AMTRA secretary-general.
Organisation says increasing numbers of industry bodies are supporting the move.

The Animal Medicines Training Regulatory Authority (AMTRA) has spoken of the growing support for the title of ‘Registered Animal Medicines Advisors’ (RAMAs), ahead of what could be an official change when the UK Veterinary Medicines Regulations (VMR) are updated in 2023. 

The not-for-profit organisation, which is appointed by Defra to keep a register of Suitably Qualified Persons (SQPs), says that increasing numbers of industry bodies are supporting the move and introducing the term, including the AHDA, NADIS, SCOPS, COWS and Zoetis. 

SQPs are legally are entitled to prescribe and/or supply certain veterinary medicines (POM-VPS and NFA-VPS) under the Veterinary Medicines Regulations. However, AMTRA believes that formally changing the title to RAMA would better reflect and recognise the crucial role of registered professionals qualified.
 
Stephen Dawson, AMTRA secretary-general explains: “We are delighted to see so many other industry organisations, bodies and animal health companies now adopting the title RAMA and wanting to help the push for an official name change.

“This is a subject that has been on our radar for some time, as we do not feel the name SQP reflects the abilities of those that have passed through the training and qualification, and also maintain their CPD and ongoing learning. Animal owners do not understand the initials ‘SQP’ but nor do they understand ‘Suitably Qualified Person’, which is very vague.

He continued: “Registered Animal Medicines Advisor, or RAMA, more accurately qualifies the important role these individuals play in part of a wider animal health plan, and we are pleased to see the enthusiasm across the sector to support the move.”

AMTRA is currently engaging with the Veterinary Medicines Directorate on future regulatory changes and how the title change can be achieved.

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.