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Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966

Asked by Dr Neil HudsonConservativeDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural AffairsTabled Answered 22 July 2025UIN 68008

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment his Department has made of the effectiveness of the Veterinary Surgeons Act.

Answered by Daniel Zeichner

Defra acknowledges the calls from industry, stakeholders and the general public to update the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 (VSA) and its many potential benefits.

Currently, Defra officials are actively engaging with key stakeholders, including the BVA (British Veterinary Association), the RCVS (Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons), BVNA (British Veterinary Nursing Association), and the Vet Schools Council to review opportunities for reform of the sector.

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