RCVS welcomes government commitment to consult on VSA

We have today welcomed the announcement in the Chancellor’s Budget Statement that the government is committed to publishing a consultation this year on potential reforms to the Veterinary Surgeons Act (VSA) 1966.

On hearing the news, Tim Parkin, RCVS President, said: "Having been calling for urgent reform to the VSA for many years, this is very encouraging news and, perhaps, even an early Christmas present from the Chancellor.

At nearly 60 years old, the VSA does not give the RCVS the powers or flexibility necessary to be a modern regulator fit for purpose in the 21st Century. It’s time for change.

Tim Parkin, RCVS President

"Throughout 2025 we have been working closely with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), British Veterinary Association, British Veterinary Nursing Association and others on key recommendations for potential reform. These include the statutory power to regulate veterinary and animal healthcare businesses, protection of title for veterinary nurses, and regulation of the wider animal care team, among others.

"At nearly 60 years old, the VSA does not give the RCVS the powers or flexibility necessary to be a modern regulator fit for purpose in the 21st Century. It’s time for change.

"Being in the unique position of being a Royal College that regulates, we very much look forward to hearing more detail from Defra about this consultation in due course, and would encourage members of the veterinary professions and public alike to respond."

More information about the College’s recommendations for reform are available at www.rcvs.org.uk/timeforchange.