Swann backs law reform to introduce vet business regulation and increase transparency for animal owners

South Antrim MP Robin Swann has backed a campaign for reform of outdated Veterinary Surgeons Act at Westminster event, supporting local animal owners by pledging support for the introduction of regulation for vet businesses, along with mandatory licensing and standards for all veterinary practices.

Attending a joint event at the House of Commons hosted by the British Veterinary Association (BVA), the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA), Mr Swann met with the three organisations about the urgent need to reform the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 (VSA).

The Government’s proposed reforms of the VSA will modernise outdated legislation and introduce regulation of veterinary practices; clearer professional standards; and stronger accountability across the veterinary sector. For animal owners this will mean greater transparency, improved trust in veterinary pricing and services, and confidence in the care their animals receive.

Speaking at the event, BVA President Dr Rob Williams MRCVS, RCVS President Professor Tim Parkin FRCVS and BVNA President Sarah Holliday RVN underlined how advances in veterinary medicine, growing pet ownership, and the expanding veterinary team mean that current legislation is outdated.

It follows the recent Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation into UK veterinary services for household pets, which in its final report calls for widespread reform of veterinary legislation to address a number of concerns raised around transparency and consumer choice.

Robin Swann MP said:

“I was shocked to learn that veterinary businesses are not regulated, and anyone can call themselves a veterinary nurse, which is a risk for animal welfare and public health in the UK. The recent Competition and Markets Authority investigation also highlighted just how important these issues are and pressed government for changes to the existing law.

“That is why I’m backing BVA, RCVS and BVNA’s calls for urgent reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act, which has cross-party support, to ensure veterinary professionals are equipped to support our farmers and pet owners.”