Vetting the vets : the regulation of the veterinary profession in the UK

This thesis investigates the regulation of the veterinary profession in the UK. In the UK this profession is regulated by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) under the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 (VSA 1966). Since that date there have occurred vast changes in veterinary medicine and science and the delivery of veterinary services, legal developments in other areas, including professional regulatory law, and societal changes in attitudes towards animals and expectations of the professions. This research was undertaken in order to determine whether the regulatory system for the veterinary profession in the UK is well designed to achieve the aims appropriate to the present-day profession, and to propose reforms where these are indicated. The system was evaluated by applying a set of benchmark criteria used by the National Health Service Ombudsman for England whose jurisdiction encompasses clinical as well as administrative matters. The study shows that the current system is well suited to functions such as regulating and monitoring veterinary education and rule-making for the control of animal diseases and zoonoses. However, the overall conclusion is that the VSA 1966 is outdated and should be replaced by new legislation. Arguments are made in favour of the following key reforms: separation of regulatory role from Royal College functions; changes in the composition of the regulatory body; introduction of the regulation of paraprofessionals and veterinary practices; plus a range of changes across the disciplinary system involving revision of the grounds and sanctions for disciplinary action, clarification of the identity of the regulator, reforms in the investigation of complaints, disciplinary hearings, appeals and the position of the complainant in the disciplinary process. Whilst some improvements could be made under the current regime, the view remains that new legislation is needed. Although it appears that the RCVS is in favour of this, the necessary political will seems to be lacking on the part of government.EThOS - Electronic Theses Online ServiceGBUnited Kingdo