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PM confirms support for farming and welfare
"We will maintain the UK’s high standards of food safety and of animal welfare; that will be a priority for us."
MP questioned Theresa May on Brexit trade deals
 
The Prime Minister has confirmed she will maintain the UK’s standards of food safety and animal welfare when the UK leaves the European Union.

Victoria Atkins, MP for Louth and Horncastle, asked Theresa May whether the government would continue to back British farming and ensure the high standards expected of food producers and farmers will be met in any international trade deals struck. The question was posed during the Prime Minister’s Question Time on Wednesday (15 March).

Responding, Theresa May said: “I can assure my hon. friend that we will certainly do that…

“We have an opportunity to build a new future for our food and farming industry when we leave the European Union. We will maintain the UK’s high standards of food safety and of animal welfare; that will be a priority for us.

“Any trade deals we enter into will need to be right for consumers, for businesses and for farmers, and will need to ensure our food safety and environmental protection, and of course the animal welfare standards I have just referred to.

“We recognise the need for certainty for businesses. We have already provided guarantees on support for farmers up to 2020, and I can assure her that we will continue to back British farmers.”

Her comments were welcomed by the Country Land and Business Association. President Ross Murray said: “I am delighted the Prime Minister has confirmed her unequivocal backing for British farming. As we move ever closer to Brexit, our farmers need certainty that their quality products and high environmental and welfare standards will continue to play a major role within the UK and EU food chain and beyond.

“Getting our trade deal with the EU right must be the priority. We shall play our part to ensure the Government establishes new international trade deals which benefit farmers and consumers alike and will hold the Government to account to deliver on this commitment.”

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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.