The UK government has unveiled proposals to introduce a veterinary ombudsman, cap prescription fees at £21, and require vets to publish price lists, marking the biggest overhaul of veterinary regulation in 60 years.
New Ombudsman and Independent Regulator
Under the newly published White Paper, pet owners will have a clear route to redress when complaints cannot be resolved directly with their vet practice. The government is considering an independent regulator to oversee the sector. Vets will also face statutory regulation, inspections, and published compliance reports for the first time.
Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Secretary Emma Reynolds said: “Pets are part of the family, but for too many households the cost of caring for them has become a real worry. These reforms will help owners avoid unexpected bills, compare prices more easily and get the best value care for their pets.”
CMA Recommendations Included
The proposals incorporate reforms recommended earlier this year by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), which found that vet fees had risen significantly. The CMA recommended capping prescription fees at £21 and requiring vets to publish a price list. A price comparison website will also be introduced to help pet owners find the cheapest treatments.
CMA chief executive Sarah Cardell said: “We back the Government’s proposals, which include our recommendations on regulating the sector. For the first time, these proposals would ensure that vet businesses are accountable to an independent regulator, while offering consumers more protection and a fairer deal.”
Industry and Political Support
UK chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss said: “The veterinary profession has changed enormously over the past 60 years, but the legislation underpinning it has not kept pace. This new framework will build a stronger, more resilient veterinary profession fit to meet the needs of the UK’s animal sector whilst ensuring the highest standards of care for our animals.”
Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee chairman Alistair Carmichael added: “We support the proposal for a new veterinary ombudsman and are glad to see ministers act on our recent recommendation. We heard evidence that many in the veterinary workforce would also support this move. The industry is changing and so too should the way it is regulated, as happened previously in the legal and medical professions.”
