Sector welcomes government’s VSA commitment
RCVS president Tim Parkin says a consultation could be an 'early Christmas present' from the chancellor.
Veterinary organisations have welcomed an announcement from the UK government, committing to a consultation on the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966.
The commitment, made during the chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Budget Statement, could see a consultation published this year on potential reforms.
The Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 has been a topic of discussion among the veterinary sector for many years. It has featured heavily in the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation, and has been the subject of campaigns from organisations including the British Veterinary Association (BVA) and the Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP).
Many veterinary organisations support a reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act, which has been described as ‘outdated’ and unsuitable for the modern veterinary industry.
The BVA explains that the current Veterinary Surgeons Act regulates veterinary surgeons and RVNs, but not veterinary practices. This means that individuals may be held accountable for business decisions outside of their control.
The Act has been further criticised for its approach to veterinary nurses. Both BVA and the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) have called for the ‘veterinary nurse’ title to be protected, preventing those without qualifications using the title.
It also does not recognise other members of the veterinary team, including technicians and other professionals.
Responding to the chancellor’s announcement, BVA president Rob Williams said: “BVA has been pushing for reform of the outdated Veterinary Surgeons Act for many, many years and in recent months we’ve worked closely with Defra on what reformed legislation could look like.
“It’s therefore extremely positive to see the government once again committing to reform in the chancellor’s Budget Statement today and with the consultation expected to launch in the coming weeks, I strongly encourage veterinary colleagues to engage with the process, ensure their voices are heard and help us grasp this opportunity to shape a veterinary sector that is fit for the 21st century.”
Meanwhile RCVS president Tim Parkin said: “Having been calling for urgent reform to the VSA for many years, this is very encouraging news and, perhaps, even an early Christmas present from the chancellor.”
He added: “At nearly 60 years old, the VSA does not give the RCVS the powers or flexibility necessary to be a modern regulator fit for purpose in the 21st century. It’s time for change.
“Being in the unique position of being a Royal College that regulates, we very much look forward to hearing more detail from Defra about this consultation in due course, and would encourage members of the veterinary professions and public alike to respond.”
Image © RCVS
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
