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CMA launches IVC business merger inquiry
The CMA is investigating whether the acquisitions has or may result 'in a substantial lessening of competition'.
The regulator is investigating eight completed acquisitions.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched an investigation into the acquisition of multiple businesses acquired by Independent Vetcare Limited (IVC).

Among the IVC acquisitions under investigation include Swayne & Partners Ltd, Bury St Edmunds, and Penrose Veterinary Group Limited, Colchester.

The Initial Enforcement Orders, published on the 17th of November, state that the CMA is considering whether 'a relevant merger situation has been created' and whether the situation has or may result 'in a substantial lessening of competition in any markets or markets in the United Kingdom'.

The orders also maintain that practices under investigation must carry out their business separately from IVC and maintain their separate sales or brand identity. The full list of acquisitions to be investigated is as follows:
  • Penrose Veterinary Group Limited
  • Kevin Castle (Pet Care) Ltd
  • Swayne & Partners Ltd
  • Treforest Veterinary Clinic Limited
  • Mercer & Hughes Limited
  • Swaffham Veterinary Centre Ltd
  • Anglesey Pet Clinic Ltd
  • Chiltern Equine Clinic
IVC has been directed to appoint a monitoring trustee to ensure compliance with the orders, available on the CMA's website.

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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.