FIVP warns Veterinary Surgeons Act consult ‘misrepresented’
"Defra appears to be using the consultation, which should unite the veterinary sector, to build support for the CMA’s proposed remedies." – Rita Dingwall.
The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) has voiced its concern about the handling of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 consultation.
The organisation, which represents independent practices across the UK, has accused the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) of using the consultation to ‘build support’ for the CMA’s remedies.
Defra first launched its Veterinary Surgeons Act consultation on Tuesday, 27 January 2026. It is due to conclude on Wednesday, 25 March 2026.
Its press release made regular mention of the ongoing investigation being led by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). This included reference to the CMA’s remedy package, which recommended a reform to the Veterinary Surgeons Act
However the CMA’s recommendations are yet to be confirmed, with its final decision report due to be published this month.
FIVP says that calls for a reform to the Veterinary Surgeons Act predate the CMA’s investigation. It says that, as such, the Veterinary Surgeons Act consultation should be considered entirely independently from the final decision report.
It is now accusing Defra of using the ‘long-awaited, vital’ consultation to build support for the CMA’s final decision report.
Rita Dingwall, chair of FIVP, says: “While we are pleased that this much-needed consultation has been launched, we are disappointed that it is being misrepresented as part of the CMA’s remedy package. Defra appears to be using the consultation, which should unite the veterinary sector, to build support for the CMA’s proposed remedies.
“We hope that our members will continue to share their views on the Veterinary Surgeons Act. Everyone in the veterinary profession must consider what is best for the future of veterinary care and animal welfare, independently of the CMA’s reports.”
Image © FIVP
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. 
