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Inquiry to consider farm animal welfare post-Brexit
cow
Committee members are welcoming views from stakeholders on a number of questions.
Views wanted from experts and stakeholders 

A short inquiry is set to explore the implications of Brexit for farm animal welfare, with the aim of informing the government on the challenges and opportunities it could face.

The EU Energy and Environment Sub-Committee will take evidence from key industry representatives and academic experts at a roundtable discussion next month (5 April).

Committee members are also welcoming views from stakeholders on a number of questions:
  • What impact will Brexit have on assurance and standards in relation to farm animal welfare?
  • Is a decline in farm animal welfare standards post-Brexit inevitable? 
  • Which monitoring bodies will need to be replaced or strengthened?
  • What will the government need to do to ensure continued protection for farm animals across the UK?
  • How can the UK remain a world leader in farm animal welfare?
  • What are the post-Brexit opportunities in relation to farm animal welfare? 
  • What is the role of consumer demand and consumer awareness in high farm animal welfare standards?
  • What effect, if any, will the withdrawal from the EU have on the UK's ability to promote farm animal welfare?

All submissions should be sent to the clerk of the committee, Celia Stenderup-Petersen, by 8 April 2017: stenderuppetersenc@parliament.uk

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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.