SPVS submission to the Defra consultation on reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act
SPVS has now submitted its response to the proposed reforms of the Veterinary Surgeons Act.
SPVS has been closely involved in this work through the BVA working group, with representation from Pete Orpin (President), Vicki Farbon (Chair), Kate Higgins (JVP) and Ami Sawran (SVP). SPVS has not simply been a co-signatory to the wider BVA response, which addresses the detailed elements of the proposals, but has also been an active and integral contributor to the BVA’s wider work in this area.
In addition, we sought further input directly from members through a survey completed by 196 respondents across SPVS, XLVets and FIVP. This additional submission (see link below) focuses on the broader and more complex elements of reform, including governance, value, and how both regulatory and professional leadership functions operate from a business perspective.
There is a clear and consistent message. Members want regulation that is efficient and effective, supported by appropriate professional guidance. There is also a strong expectation that processes are transparent, for both clients and the profession, if trust is to be maintained.
The exact governance structure has not yet been determined. However, a key theme from the feedback is that the regulatory function must be clearly accountable.
