Date: 25th September 2003
Released by: ANDREW TURNER

Island MP Andrew Turner is consulting with representatives of the local veterinary community and the Island’s branch of the National Farmers Union to discuss the implications of controversial new measures that would alter the prescribing, dispensing and pricing of veterinary medicines. The Government also has plans to amend the Veterinary Surgeons Act which would mean changes to the process by which veterinary surgeons are trained and registered.

Considering both changes Andrew Turner said,
“Veterinarians provide a vital service, especially in rural areas like the Isle of Wight, and any measure which might impede or interfere with their ability to do their job should be considered very carefully. I am consulting with vets and farmers who are so essential to our rural economy to ensure that I am fully briefed on what these changes if introduced would mean for the Island. As a dog owner myself I am concerned that these plans may have severe animal welfare implications. I would be opposed to any move which could endanger the exceptionally high standards of veterinary care available to both pet owners and farm owners alike”

The NFU on the Island, in line with their national organisation is concerned that the proposals on veterinary medicines will lead to higher charges overall to farmers when many are already struggling to survive financially. Across the country the number of veterinary surgeons in large animal practise is dropping alarmingly and this can only damage animal welfare in the long run.