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Posted: 28th February 2013

BVA president talks on value of vets
Image: Anne McIntosh & Peter Jones
Vet importance in animal and public health set out

In his annual London dinner speech on Tuesday evening, BVA president Peter Jones called on government, parliamentarians and other stakeholders to see the value of vets.

He spoke of current issues such as the horse meat scandal, and the BVA's call for measures to reduce slaughter without stunning. Other topics addressed during his speech included dog welfare and the importance of the puppy contract, and the recent issues surrounding pet travel.

Guests at the dinner included parliamentarians, veterinary surgeons, and representatives from the agri-food industry, pet industry, welfare charities, research and veterinary education. Anne McIntosh, Chair of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee, also spoke to discuss some of the recent work of the committee, and to thank the BVA for its input.

Mr Jones echoed recent calls by the BEVA for an improved National Equine Database (NED) in order address the recent horse meat scandal. He spoke of the importance of the veterinary industry in restoring the public's faith in the food chain, suggesting compulsory horse microchipping and an overhaul of the passport system. He said: "These measures may not be cheap but what price can we honestly put on regaining confidence in the food chain?"

However Mr Jones warned against a reaction to the issue that could unnecessarily impact the cost of production in the UK. He added: "We fear that farmers could be squeezed financially with consequences for animal health and welfare. Ultimately, we need a system that works and inspires confidence without undue burden."

Continuing on the subject of welfare in the horse meat trade, Mr Jones called for clearer labelling of products, making it clear to consumers whether or not the horse was slaughtered by stunning. He referred to the current ambivalence as "unacceptable", adding that clarity would make it "financially unattractive for slaughterhouses to supply meat from non-stun slaughter."

Commenting on companion animal issues, Mr Jones expressed his hope that the review of the puppy contract later this year would bring everyone on board. He also commented on concerns raised by vets across the country regarding animals of unknown origin entering practices. He called on the Efra Committee to consider holding an inquiry into pet travel, voicing the "grave concerns" of the veterinary industry regarding welfare.

Concluding his speech, Mr Jones said: “In political terms we’re halfway through this Government and I think the veterinary profession – with a strong lead from the BVA – is bringing real value to the policy-making process and having an impact on the decisions being made. Of course we don’t expect to get everything we want, but we won’t be put off trying and we embrace the opportunities to contribute the scientific and evidence-based veterinary viewpoint.”



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