BVA expects Brexit to have ‘significant impact’ on veterinary sector

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has highlighted the need for careful management of the UK's exit from the EU to limit any potential impact on the veterinary sector.

Following last week's referendum vote in favour of Brexit, the BVA has predicted a "significant impact" on a number of key fronts, including regulation, education and workforce planning, as well as in terms of animal welfare, research, surveillance and animal movements.

Now that the outcome of the vote is certain, the organisation will be launching a Vet Futures Action Plan at the Vet Futures Summit on July 4th, outlining key initiatives for the sector with revised timelines to account for the full impact of Brexit.

It will also be working closely with the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe, the Commonwealth Veterinary Association and World Veterinary Association to get an outside perspective on the best course of action.

Sean Wensley, president at the BVA, said the aim of this will be "to ensure the UK veterinary profession continues to influence and engage on cross border issues such as disease surveillance, veterinary medicines and antimicrobial resistance".

Recruitment and freedom of movement are expected to be impacted by the decision to quit the EU, as is the availability of funding for key animal health initiatives.