Statement from RCVS President on BBC Radio 4 investigation

Following a broadcast of BBC Radio 4's File on 4 investigation into veterinary prices and commercial pressures on Tuesday 15 April 2025, RCVS President Linda Belton commented: 

“The allegations made by veterinary whistleblowers in BBC Radio 4’s File on 4 investigation are concerning from both an animal health and welfare and consumer choice perspective. We would like to reiterate our position that it is essential that veterinary surgeons have autonomy in clinical judgement and decision-making, regardless of business structures or commercial pressures.

“As the regulator of the veterinary professions, but not of veterinary businesses, we aim to safeguard veterinary autonomy by saying there should be a senior veterinary surgeon in every practice who is responsible for the delivery of veterinary care within the organisation. We recently wrote to veterinary employers to remind them of this need, and to stress the importance of providing an environment where veterinary professionals have the autonomy that they need. In light of the BBC investigation and the allegations therein, we will continue to emphasise this requirement. 

“The programme’s broadcast also served to highlight the fact that, although we are currently only able to regulate individual veterinary professionals and not businesses, we are looking to establish a system of mandatory practice regulation via new primary legislation and are currently working with government to achieve this. Such a system would mean the public can feel assured that, whatever practices they take their animal to and whatever particular business structure it might have, it will be operating to high standards set, monitored and enforced by their regulator.

“In the meantime, any veterinary professionals who have concerns about autonomy in clinical judgement and decision-making can contact our confidential reporting line on 020 3795 5600 or [email protected].”