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Ȥҹapp supports UK Government’s legislative reform proposals but raises concerns about governance

25 Mar 2026

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Ȥҹapp has submitted its response to Defra's consultation on reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act.

Ȥҹapp supports UK Government’s legislative reform proposals but raises concerns about governance   Image

In itsresponseto the UK Government’son reforming the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 (VSA),the Ȥҹapp (Ȥҹapp)is supportive ofthevastmajority of recommendationsthat wouldsignificantly change how veterinary professionalsgo about their daily work, as wellas how theyare regulated and governed in the future.

Ȥҹapphasmade clear that itbroadlysupportsmostoftheproposals,including:

  • Regulation of allied veterinary professionals such as veterinary technicians, equine dental technicians, cattle hooftrimmersand behaviourists
  • Recognition and protection of titles for all regulated professions within the vet team, including the protection of the ‘veterinary nurse’ title
  • Regulation of veterinaryand animal healthcarebusinesses
  • Replacement of the existing out-of-date disciplinary process with a modern fitness to practise regime

However,Ȥҹapphasexpressed concernaboutthe proposed governance model, which would involveretaininga ‘RoyalCollege that regulates’,as it does not currently deliver clear separation of regulatory and professional leadership functions. Ȥҹapp also has concerns about the alternative model as set out in the consultation,which would involvethe RCVS becoming solely a regulator, asthere is no clear planfor ensuring continued provision and adequate funding of the professional leadership functions.The consultation documentalsofails tofully explain to what extentanyseparation of functions would be enshrined in legislation.

Ȥҹapp has expressed disappointment that Defra did not consult on a third governance model, under which the RCVS’s regulatory functions would be transferred to a ‘new’ regulatory body (for example a ‘Veterinary Services Council’), with RCVS retaining its professional leadership functions.

Ȥҹapp President Dr. Rob Williams MRCVS said:

“We’re on the cusp of significant and exciting changes for the veterinary professions and Ȥҹapp supports most of Defra’s proposals that will finally bring the Veterinary Surgeons Act in line with modern veterinary practice. From the introduction of regulation of veterinary businesses and allied professionals to the protection of the ‘veterinary nurse’ title and a more modern fitness to practice regime, these measures will have a significant positive impact on our ability to do our jobs effectively and provide the public with greater trust in the veterinary professions.

“However, we do have some concerns about some of the proposals, particularly around governance. For the reformed veterinary legislation to achieve its aims, we need an effective regulator whose remit is clear and trusted by both the public and the professions. Defra’s proposed models for governance fail either to fully explain to what extent the separation of regulatory and professional leadership functions would be enshrined in legislation, or how it would ensure continued provision and adequate funding for these. That’s why we’re calling on Defra to engage in further discussions with Ȥҹapp, RCVS, BVNA and other key stakeholders on this issue. It’s vital that we get this right.”

Ȥҹapp’s consultation response can be viewed online.

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