AS many will be aware, the government is currently consulting on proposed reforms to the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 (VSA), which, being 60 years old, is no longer fit for purpose for the modern veterinary sector. Defra has worked with many key stakeholders to develop this consultation, including the BVA, the British Veterinary Nursing Association, the RCVS and the Veterinary Schools Council. We are keen for as many of you as possible to have your say and ensure your voice is heard to shape the future of your profession and the sector. Responses to the consultation will shape proposed reforms of the VSA, developing a modern regulatory framework fit for the needs of the veterinary professions, businesses and the sector more widely, both now and in the future. We know that the ongoing Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation into veterinary services for household pets has caused controversy among the veterinary profession and led to some vets feeling targeted. However, it has catapulted VSA reform up the political agenda, giving the veterinary sector a rare and crucial opportunity to make long overdue changes. It has been great to see and hear colleagues discussing the consultation at work and in private veterinary groups and forums, but please remember to put your views through the official consultation route, so that your feedback can be considered. You can respond to as little or as much of the consultation as you wish, and you can also dip in and out (as long as you save your progress). We often hear that government consultations are a ‘done deal’. This is not the case. By sharing your valuable insights, thoughts and suggestions, we will be in a stronger position to advance the proposed reforms of the VSA together successfully – protecting animal health and welfare, supporting veterinary professionals and improving public trust in veterinary businesses. This is your chance to shape your profession and sector, so please do respond to the consultation before it closes on 25 March 2026. You can find it at https://bit.ly/4t5T860 or by searching for ‘VSA Reform Consultation’ in your search engine. If you would like to know more, you can read a government veterinary service blog about reforming the VSA at https://bit.ly/4aXvLoe. For BVA members there is also a recording of a webinar that took place on 12 March, which can be accessed at bva.co.uk/vsa
Brown et al. (Fri,) studied this question.