GovWire

A public consultation on proposed changes to the Veterinary Medicines Regulations launched today (2 February) and seeks views on proposals to modernise the Regulations and maintain the UK as an attractive place to develop and market veterinary medicines.

The Veterinary Medicines Regulations 2013 as they apply in Great Britain, set out the controls on the marketing, manufacture, distribution, possession, and administration of veterinary medicines and medicated feed. They are a critical tool to help protect animal health, public health and the environment.

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.

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

This consultation sets out detailed proposals to strengthen the regulations around veterinary medicines, to support this country continuing to be a world leader in animal health and welfare.

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.

The UKs 5-year national action plan sets out the UKs plan for antimicrobial resistance between 2019 to 2024.

Abi Seager, VMDs CEO said:

I am pleased to see 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.

Access the consultation documents directly through Citizen Space or by visiting the Veterinary Medicines Directorates new engagement website www.vmdconnect.uk, where details are provided about several focussed Q&A sessions that will be held in February.

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is a regulatory and policy lead body responsible for issues concerning the use and manufacture of veterinary medicines and medicated feed in the UK.

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