Launched ahead of next month’s national elections
Three manifestos calling on incoming MPs to take action on animal health and welfare under a One Health agenda have been launched by the BVA.
Released ahead of next month's national elections (5 May), the manifestos were developed by drawing on the expertise and experiences of BVA’s members working throughout the UK.
They make clear recommendations in three key areas: safeguarding animal health, promoting animal welfare, and recognising the vital role of veterinary surgeons.
Each manifesto sets out almost 20 policy recommendations that provide a clear pathway towards improving animal health and welfare.
Among the recommendations, the manifestos challenge the next governments to protect the welfare of animals by requiring all animals to be stunned before slaughter.
Where there is little or no non-stun slaughter carried out, the BVA urge the next governments to introduce measures to label meat as stunned or non-stunned to allow consumers to make an informed decision.
The manifestos also challenge the next governments to continue support for the One Health approach, as outlined in the UK Five Year AMR Strategy, to increase collaboration and integration of the veterinary and medical professions to promote the responsible use of antimicrobials.
BVA president Sean Wensley commented: “The UK prides itself on high, continuously improving animal welfare standards and voters care deeply about animal health and welfare issues, so we urge the incoming national governments to include this in their agendas and champion the concept of One Health in recognition of the inextricable links between animals, humans, and our shared living environment.”
He continued: “Through our daily work, and these manifestos, we believe vets are in a unique position from which to offer the next governments in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales evidence-based and informed advice and policy recommendations.”
The Manifestos will be sent to all candidates who are standing for election, relevant animal health and welfare groups, BVA honorary associate MPs, Peers & MEPs, and respective Chief Veterinary Officers.
After the elections, BVA will also share the document with newly elected Members.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
