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Chief vet awarded CB in New Year Honours
“I am very proud of the work we do and I am passionate about inspiring confidence in women and girls hoping to pursue careers in science" - Dr Christine Middlemiss.
Christine Middlemiss has been awarded for her services to the UK's veterinary and farming sectors.

Dr Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer (CVO), has been made a Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB) in the King's New Year Honours list.

The Order of the Bath is a British order of chivalry and is second only to a damehood or knighthood. Dr Middlemiss received the honour for maintaining the UK's high animal health and welfare standards following Brexit and her efforts to manage the UK's largest ever outbreak of avian influenza. 

Dr Middlemiss said she was “truly humbled” to be awarded the honour, adding that it “demonstrates the recognition of the importance of having vets in government and what we do”.

“As we’ve seen over the last few years, vets have a critical role in a variety of issues including new and emerging diseases, food supply and supporting people fleeing conflict with their beloved pets,” she said.

“I am very proud of the work we do and I am passionate about inspiring confidence in women and girls hoping to pursue careers in science, as well as ensuring that we have highly expert and experienced public sector vets to continue to make a significant positive impact.”

Since becoming CVO in 2018, Dr Middlemiss has led the UK’s approach on various vital issues ranging from global animal health issues; biosecurity and disease risk management; and trade and market access agreements. 

Most recently she has played a key role in efforts to mitigate the spread of avian influenza and manage its impacts on farmers, the public and international trade. She also directed efforts to ensure Ukrainian refugees could bring their pets to the UK and helped to develop the Government's response to the Independent Review on bovine TB.

Defra permanent secretary Tamara Finkelstein said: “Since becoming Chief Veterinary Officer in 2018, Christine has achieved accomplishments of national and international importance, so I am delighted to see her huge contributions to veterinary, farming and the United Kingdom being recognised in this way.

“She has repeatedly provided outstanding leadership and valuable expert advice whilst dealing with extremely challenging issues - her honour is thoroughly deserved.”

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.