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Prof Sandy Trees ennobled
Distinguished vet appointed to House of Lords

MRCVS.co.uk would like to extend our warmest congratulations to Professor Alexander (Sandy) Trees, formerly Dean of the Liverpool University Veterinary School and President of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, upon the announcement of his being raised to the House of Lords as a Crossbench Peer. Professor Trees' future title will be announced at a later date, and he will become the second veterinary surgeon ever to enter the Lords after the ennoblement of Lord Soulsby of Swaffham Prior in 1990.

Commenting, Professor Trees said “I am delighted and humbled to be appointed as a member of the House of Lords, not least as I will become only the second veterinary surgeon to be ennobled. The understanding of science in public policy has never been more important and I look forward to bringing my experience and knowledge to the House.”

“I shall endeavour to be an advocate for science-based policy making and also for the veterinary profession. I believe that veterinary surgeons both in practice and academia could, and should, play a more prominent role in advising Parliament not only on animal health and welfare matters, but also on human healthcare.”

Also commenting, BVA President Carl Padgett said “The British Veterinary Association is absolutely delighted at Professor Trees' appointment to the House of Lords. He will bring a wealth of experience and scientific expertise into the political arena, not only in the fields of animal health and welfare but also public health, where he has particular knowledge and experience.”

"We are also proud that Professor Trees will be formally opening this September's BVA Congress in Liverpool where he inspired two generations of vets through his teaching and research, and we look forward to working with him to deliver a healthy future for animals, vets and the country."

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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. 

Click here for more...
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.