BVA shares governance fears for VSA reform
BVA says that Defra should have consulted on a third option of the governance model.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has published its response to the government’s consultation on a new Veterinary Surgeons Act (VSA).
While broadly supporting the government’s proposals, the association voiced its concerns about the proposed governance model.
Under current proposals, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) would retain its status as ‘a Royal College that regulates’. BVA says that this approach ‘does not currently deliver clear separation of regulatory and professional leadership functions’.
However an alternative model, in which the RCVS acts solely as a regulator, has also been questioned by BVA.
BVA raised concern that this alternative proposal had not been accompanied by a clear plan for the provision and adequate funding of leadership functions. It says the consultation document did not fully explain how the separation of functions would be legislated.
It has suggested that Defra should have consulted on a third governance model. In this model, BVA proposes that RCVS’ regulatory functions are transferred to a ‘new’ regulatory body, while RCVS retains its professional leadership functions.
BVA has, however, voiced its support for many of Defra’s other proposals for the new Veterinary Surgeons Act.
This includes protection of titles for all members of the veterinary team, including veterinary nurses, as well as regulation of veterinary businesses, animal healthcare businesses and allied veterinary professionals. The proposals also replace the existing disciplinary process with a fitness to practice regime.
Rob Williams, BVA president, said: “For the reformed veterinary legislation to achieve its aims, we need an effective regulator whose remit is clear and trusted by both the public and the professions.
“Defra’s proposed models for governance fail either to fully explain to what extent the separation of regulatory and professional leadership functions would be enshrined in legislation, or how it would ensure continued provision and adequate funding for these. That’s why we’re calling on Defra to engage in further discussions with BVA, RCVS, BVNA and other key stakeholders on this issue. It’s vital that we get this right.”
BVA’s consultation response can be viewed here.
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Eligible members of BEVA will be able to vote for their Council team until Monday, 17 August 2026. Members will have received an election email on 17 July.
