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BVA launches 10 pledges for general election manifesto
“We are at a critical time for animal health and welfare, and the future of our profession".
Pledges include protecting all animals in law and boosting the veterinary workforce

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has published a list of 10 pledges for political parties to include in their manifestos for the upcoming general election.

The pledges, which include animal welfare, Brexit and the veterinary workforce, were unveiled at a private briefing for MPs and Peers in Westminster last month. The BVA has written to all major parties to ask them to adopt the pledges in their General Election manifestos

They are:

    1    Reject a no-deal Brexit
    2    Boost the veterinary workforce
    3    Protect all animals in law
    4    Protect UK welfare standards in future trade deals and agri policies
    5    Protect the welfare of animals at slaughter
    6    Strengthen legislation against illegal puppy imports
    7    Commit to evidence-based disease control
    8    Introduce a single database for microchip registration
    9    Ban primates as pets
    10    Put animal welfare on the national curriculum

BVA President Daniella Dos Santos said: “We are at a critical time for animal health and welfare, and the future of our profession. All major political parties recognise that animal welfare is a key issue for voters so it’s essential that they adopt sound, evidence-based policies in their manifestos.
 
“Our manifesto of 10 pledges draws together the most pressing topical issues that matter to our members. Unsurprisingly, Brexit has taken the top slot. BVA has not taken a position in favour of leave or remain, but our Council reviewed the evidence and concluded that a no-deal Brexit would have serious consequences for our workforce, and animal health and welfare.”
 
She continued: “We know there is cross-party support for many of the animal welfare measures in our manifesto, such as enshrining sentience in UK law, but we need to see a real commitment to action. We’re looking forward to engaging with all parties to put these policies into effect.
 
“During the campaign, we’re calling on election candidates to talk to vets in their local communities to better understand the veterinary workforce and welfare issues in our profession.”

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Cold-water dip to raise funds for Vetlife

News Story 1
 The veterinary mental health charity Vetlife is inviting the veterinary community to join it for a sponsored cold-water dip.

The event will take place at Walpole Bay, Margate, on 17 May during Mental Health Awareness Week. Participants of all abilities can join in the challenge and are advised to bring a towel, a hot drink, a snack, and warm clothes to get changed into afterwards.

Those taking part are being asked to try to raise 100 each to support the work of the charity.

Details about how to take part can be found here. 

Click here for more...
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