RCVS to freeze registration fees for 2012

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has announced that it will be freezing its registration and retention fees in 2012.

At the organisation's council meeting on June 2nd 2011, the RCVS' budget for next year was approved, including a recommendation that fees paid by veterinary surgeons and nurses should not be subject to further increases.

Moreover, members aged 70 years or above that cease practicing will not need to pay to remain on the register.

This new policy is being adopted in light of the impact of the current economic climate on animal health professionals and follows the RCVS's decision last year to increase fees at a lower rate than inflation.

It stated: "The RCVS financial policy remains that fee increases should be small and incremental in order to avoid a need for periodic sharp fee hikes resulting from inflationary pressures."

Last month, the organisation launched a consultation on a new case management protocol being proposed for its disciplinary committee, which will provide additional guidance for all concerned parties.