Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what discussions he has had with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons on complaints that fall below the RCVS definition of serious professional misconduct.

The disciplinary role of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) is to investigate complaints thoroughly, determine whether or not serious professional misconduct has been committed, and then take appropriate action.

Defra are currently working with key stakeholders, including the RCVS, to review opportunities for potential reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, including the handling of disciplinary matters.