LOGIN
EU-UK veterinary agreement
What's the issue?
Following Brexit, all goods of animal origin are currently subject to checks when they cross borders. Agri-food exports overall are worth £25 billion to the UK economy, and exports to the EU have seen a fall of 5% in the two years since the new trading rules were put in place.
The introduction of health certifications and physical checks are causing concerns to the veterinary profession in three main areas: animal health and welfare; unnecessary bureaucracy and associated paperwork, such as the need for Export Health Certificates (EHCs); and veterinary man-power implications and poor use of professional resource. Since January 2021, about 1 million EHCs have been issued putting significant pressure on the profession.
What's our view?
BVA has consistently advocated for measures that support the veterinary workforce while safeguarding animal health and welfare.
A veterinary agreement with the EU provides the UK with an opportunity to ensure efficient use of the veterinary workforce while ensuring high standards of animal health and welfare; and public health. We believe that a veterinary agreement between the UK and the EU based on the principle of dynamic alignment will reduce trade and border controls, ensure access to databases which are vital for disease control and surveillance, facilitate access of veterinary medicinal products, and simplify pet travel. It could also include Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications when appropriate.
