We are pleased that the UK government has begun its public consultation into a reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act (1966).
This is significant and long-awaited progress towards updated legislation, ensuring the sector will be regulated by legislation that reflects the changing veterinary industry.
Defra has now announced an eight-week consultation into a new Veterinary Surgeons Act, inviting the veterinary community and pet owners to review its suggestions. Respondents have until 23.59 on 25 March 2026 to share their views.
FIVP is in support of a reformed Veterinary Surgeons Act and will examine Defra’s documents with interest.
We strongly encourage FIVP members to review the documents themselves and respond to the consultation before the deadline. Alternatively, members can contact FIVP at enquiries@fivp.org.uk to discuss their opinions with us.
When the original Veterinary Surgeons Act was passed in 1966, the veterinary sector consisted of small, vet-owned practices providing care to the local community.
Sixty years later, the spread of corporate-owned practices is one of many changes that have made the sector unrecognisable. The existing legislation is not suitable for regulating today’s veterinary industry.
Defra has made a number of proposals intended to update the Veterinary Surgeons Act and make it fit for purpose.
These recommendations could see veterinary businesses become separately regulated, the legal recognition of the ‘veterinary nurse’ title, and an improved registration and fitness-to-practice process. Defra is also exploring a new governance model for the RCVS, which could see it lose non-regulatory powers.
Rita Dingwall, chair of FIVP, said: “This consultation is a genuinely welcome and a long overdue. Reforming a 1966 Act to reflect today’s complex, corporate-influenced veterinary landscape is essential if regulation is to remain fair, effective, and trusted.
“The proposals around recognising veterinary nurses, improving fitness-to-practise processes, and reviewing RCVS governance are particularly encouraging.
“It’s vital that practising vets, nurses, and pet owners engage with this consultation so the new Act truly reflects the realities of modern veterinary care and remains fit for purpose in the future”
You can take part in the consultation by visiting the Defra website. If you have any queries about the proposals, or wish to discuss your opinions, please contact our team on enquiries@fivp.org.uk .
Edit: Original text read 29 March 2026. The correct closing date is 25 March 2026.
