BVA’S response following the vote to leave the EU

The BVA has said it will “retain an outward looking and inclusive perspective through our relationships with international partners” following the referendum vote for the UK to leave the EU.

Commenting on the decision, President of the British Veterinary Association, Sean Wensley said:

"The UK's decision to leave the European Union will have a significant impact on matters of interest to the veterinary profession, particularly in relation to regulation, education, and workforce planning, but also in terms of animal welfare, research, surveillance, and animal movements. 

"BVA will work hard to ensure the voice of the veterinary profession is heard during the negotiation and discussions that will now begin, in order to secure the best possible outcomes for our profession and for animal health and welfare in the UK. The Vet Futures report provides an excellent summary of issues we need to consider in those discussions, and the Vet Futures Action Plan, due to be launched at the Vet Futures Summit ‪on 4th July, outlines key initiatives that we need to take forward, albeit with revised timelines while the full impact of Brexit is determined.

"BVA will retain an outward looking and inclusive perspective through our relationships with international partners, including the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe, Commonwealth Veterinary Association and World Veterinary Association to ensure the UK veterinary profession continues to influence and engage on cross border issues such as disease surveillance, veterinary medicines and antimicrobial resistance."