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New Chief Scientific Advisor for DEFRA
Professor Ian Boyd appointed

The appointment of Professor Ian Boyd as the new Chief Scientific Advisor (CSA) to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has been welcomed by the DEFRA Secretary Caroline Spelman MP. Speaking to the House of Commons, Mrs Spelman also told the House that she was 'immensely grateful' to the previous incumbent Professor Sir Bob Watson (who held the post since 2007) for his contribution towards DEFRA's efforts in terms of research oversight and his advice on scientific matters.

Professor Boyd, who is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, has served as Director of the Scottish Oceans Institute at the University of St Andrews since being appointed in 2001 and was integral to the foundation of the Marine Alliance for Science and Technology in Scotland in 2009. He will assume office in September on a contract of three year's duration.

Commenting on the occasion of his appointment, Prof Boyd stated that “There are substantial future challenges ahead in bio-security, food security and in responding to the effects of climate change, but the UK is well placed to meet these challenges.”

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Free CPD announced for BVNA members

News Story 1
 Zoetis is to present a CPD event for free to members of the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA).

Led by veterinary consultant Ruth Moxon, the one-hour online session is designed to help veterinary nurses discuss parasiticide options with clients. It will advise on structuring recommendations, factors for product choice and moving away from 'selling'.

'How do you recommend parasite treatments to your clients?' will be presented on Tuesday, 20 May at 7.30pm. It is free for BVNA members, with 15.00 tickets for non-members.

Veterinary nurses can email cpd@bvna.co.uk to book their place. 

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News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.