Speaking in the Short Debate in the Senedd yesterday, North Wales MS Mark Isherwood highlighted concerns regarding the potential impact of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) proposals relating to veterinary medicines.
During the Debate, 'The corporate takeover of vet practices in the purr-suit of profit to the detriment of pets and their owners', Mr Isherwood said that whilst the British Veterinary Association (BVA) welcome other proposals outlined by the CMA, they are concerned that those relating to veterinary medicines are unlikely to reduce vet bills for consumers and could impact more on the continuing viability of small practices.
Mr Isherwood said:
"I declare that I am an Honorary Associate Member of the British Veterinary Association, BVA, which represents around 19,000 individual vets across the UK, working in all areas of the profession, including both corporate and small independent practices.
"Your letter as Petitions Committee Chair to the Chair of the Economy Trade and Rural Affairs Committee notes that the BVA is a 'main party' in the CMA market investigation into veterinary services for household pets in the UK.
"They have welcomed the CMA’s proposals on increased information about practice ownership; standardised price lists; written estimates; and itemised bills.
"They also welcome the CMA’s support for reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act and the need for practice regulation, for which they have long campaigned.
"However, some of the CMA’s proposals relating to veterinary medicines have caused concern because of their potential to be ‘anti-competitive’, unlikely to reduce vet bills for consumers and impact more on the continuing viability of small practices."
