VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Veterinary Services: Harassment

Asked by Steve DarlingLiberal DemocratDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural AffairsTabled Answered 17 June 2025UIN 58757

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps his Department is taking to (a) monitor and (b) help tackle the abuse and harassment of veterinary professionals.

Answered by Daniel Zeichner

We value the vital work of the veterinary profession and the commitment and dedication of the veterinary workforce towards animal health and welfare.

Abuse towards the veterinary sector is taken very seriously; monitoring of this is conducted by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons as the regulator for the profession.

We are aware of the numerous challenges faced across the veterinary industry. The Competitions and Markets Authority (CMA) is undertaking a market investigation into the sector, and we will consider any recommendations for the department when they are available.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim