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BVA publishes policy position on gene editing
“Whilst recent work has shown its potential benefits, there remain lots of unknowns and more research is needed” – Elizabeth Mullineaux.
Animal health and welfare must come first, position states.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has called for gene editing to only be used on animals when it has a demonstrable health or welfare benefit for them.

The stance has been set out in the BVA’s new policy position, Gene Editing of Animals, which has been published in response to the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Act.

The legislation, passed by Parliament last year, allows for gene editing that does not introduce DNA from another organism to be used on plants and animals in commercial agriculture in England. Any DNA changes must theoretically have been able to occur through selective breeding.

Whilst the BVA’s policy position acknowledges that the technology has potential benefits, including improving resistance to disease, it argues that gene editing should not be used as a way to compensate for reduced welfare standards or poor management.

The position also argues that the regulatory framework around gene editing needs to ensure that it is not used to change the appearance of animal for cosmetic reasons or to improve the competitiveness of an animal used in sport.

Elizabeth Mullineaux, BVA president, said: “Gene editing has the potential to be a powerful tool for improving and protecting animal health and welfare.

“However, it must be used responsibly, never for aesthetic reasons or to boost performance in sport. The welfare of any animals involved must also never be compromised.

“Whilst recent work has shown its potential benefits, there remain lots of unknowns and more research is needed. BVA will work closely with the government to help shape this new legislation to ensure that animal health and welfare remains a top priority.”

A talk on gene editing will be held at this year’s BVA Congress on 15 November at 9.30am in the BVA Congress Theatre. The panellists will be Dominic Wells, professor of translational medicine at the Royal Veterinary College, Penny Hawkins, head of the RSPCA’s Animals in Science Department, and Huw Jones, an independent consultant in agri-innovation and animal bioscience.

The full policy position can be read here.

Image © Shutterstock

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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.