Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 4th November 2014
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

MPs launch inquiry into falling milk prices
dairy cows
The government will not get involved in milk price discussions.

Evidence sought on measures to protect the UK's dairy industry

MPs have launched an inquiry into falling milk prices. The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Efra) Committee is seeking views on the adequacy of the government's response and further action that could be taken.

Last month, the committee wrote to Defra's secretary of state Liz Truss, calling for an urgent update on the steps being taken to protect the UK's dairy industry. Her response has now been published on the parliamentary website.

Ms Truss said the government will not get involved in milk price discussions but will work with dairy industry representatives to support the British dairy industry.

Commenting on her response, Efra Committee's chair Anne McIntosh, said: "Our committee has taken a close interest in the dairy industry, publishing a report in 2011 with a series of recommendations for Government action. 

"The secretary of state’s letter reports that significant action has been taken to implement changes since then, but we wish to investigate a number of areas where further action could be taken.

"The committee is therefore inviting interested parties to let us have their views on the best way to safeguard the UK dairy industry during the current global price downturn."

MPs are seeking written submissions on a number of issues:

  • The impact of price volatility on dairy farmers and the expected short, medium and long-term effects on the industry.
  • Efficacy of government measures to support the UK dairy industry.
  • Impact of the EU milk package under the Common Agricultural Policy on dairy farming and the outcome the government should aim to secure from the EU.
  • Efficacy of EU measures in addressing the effect of market surpluses on prices.
  • Level of success achieved by voluntary approaches such as the Dairy Industry Code of Best Practice for Contractual Relations.
  • Effectiveness of the regime established under the Groceries Code Adjudicator Act 2013 in ensuring fair and stable milk prices.
  • Steps that could be taken by farmers, farming representatives and processing organisations to improve the prospects of the UK's dairy industry.


The deadline for submissions in November 18, 2014. Guidance for submitting evidence can be found on the government website.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.