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New data protection regulations for 2018
As with the Data Protection Act, the GDPR applies to personal data, but the GDPR also applies to online identifiers, such as an IP address.
UK Data Protection Act to be replaced

The new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is set to come into force in the UK from 25 May 2018, replacing the UK Data Protection Act 1998.

While the new rules are months away, it is wise for businesses to prepare in advance, to ensure they are compliant by next year.

The GDPR applies to those with a day-to-day responsibility for data protection - defined as ‘controllers’ and ‘processors’. Controllers say how and why personal data is processed and processors act on the controller’s behalf.

Processors have specific legal obligations under the new regulation - they are required to maintain records of personal data and processing activities. There will be significantly more legal liability if the processor is responsible for a data breach.

However, controllers are not relieved of their obligations if a processor is involved. The new regulation places further responsibilities on these controllers to ensure contracts with processors are compliant with the GDPR.

As with the Data Protection Act, the GDPR applies to personal data, but the GDPR also applies to online identifiers, such as an IP address.

For most organisations - those who keep HR records, customer lists or contact details, for example - the changes to the definition should make little practical difference, according to the Information Commissioner’s Office.

The GDPR applies to automated personal data and manual filing systems where personal data can be accessed according to specific criteria. This could also now apply to chronologically ordered sets of manual records that contain personal data.

For more information on the changes visit: https://ico.org.uk/for-organisations/data-protection-reform/overview-of-the-gdpr/

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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.