GovWire

Summary

• The consultation sets out proposed changes to the Veterinary Medicines Regulations 2013, as they apply in Great Britain.
• The proposed changes will modernise the Regulations, make them more effective and maintain the UK as an attractive place to develop and market veterinary medicines.
• The proposed changes will introduce measures to help tackle antimicrobial resistance.

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate has launched the public consultation on the proposed revision to the Veterinary Medicines Regulations, as they apply in Great Britain.

You can access the consultation documents directly through Citizen Space as well as by visiting the VMDs new engagement website, VMD Connect, where you will also find details about several focussed Q&A sessions on the consultation that will be held later in February and March.

The consultation sets out proposals which will ensure that the Regulations continue to be fit-for-purpose, with regulatory requirements that reflect developments in the industry and reduce regulatory burden where possible.

Improved clarity and consistency in the Regulations will create more certainty for those involved in the health and welfare of animals.

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate invites anyone with an interest to share their views on the proposals to enable proportionate and appropriate regulation.

The closing date for responses is 31 March 2023.

The VMR set out the controls on the marketing, manufacture, distribution, possession, and administration of veterinary medicines and medicated feed in Great Britain. They are a critical tool to help protect animal health, public health, and the environment.

Lord Benyon, Minister for Biosecurity, Marine and Rural Affairs, said

I am delighted that we are today launching a consultation to invite views on our detailed proposals to strengthen the regulations around veterinary medicines, to support this country continuing to be a world leader in animal health and welfare.

He added

These proposals modernise the Veterinary Medicines Regulations and include new measures to help tackle antimicrobial resistance which will contribute to delivering UKs 5-year national action plan.

Abi Seager, VMDs CEO said

I am pleased to announce the launch of this consultation. As a key regulatory tool, these proposals will enable the realisation of opportunities that independent regulation carries. We have listened to the views of our stakeholders over the last few years and the resulting proposals aim to reduce regulatory burden, bring clarity and deliver regulation which balances the international supply landscape with our own national requirements

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