RCVS response to ministerial statement at BVA Westminster dinner

Following a statement made by Defra minister Daniel Zeichner at the BVA Westminster dinner on Wednesday 26 February 2025, RCVS President Linda Belton (pictured) commented.

"At the British Veterinary Association’s Westminster dinner last week, we were delighted to hear Daniel Zeichner’s [Minister of State for Food Security and Rural Affairs] public confirmation that the Government supports reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 

“That we have reached this stage is a testament to the hard work of the RCVS, BVA, BVNA and other veterinary organisations. We have worked together in raising awareness of the need to replace the current outdated Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 with up-to-date primary legislation reflecting the modern veterinary professions, how veterinary services are now delivered and consumer expectations. 

“We look forward to our ongoing discussions with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on the potential content of any future veterinary legislation. We will continue to advocate for the changes set out in the RCVS legislative reform recommendations, including mandatory veterinary practice regulation, an enhanced role for veterinary nurses and the ability for the RCVS to regulate allied professionals working within the veterinary team.”