The need to “instil public confidence” in the drafting of new animal welfare codes has been highlighted by the British Veterinary Association (BVA) in its response to Defra’s decision to reverse its earlier move towards an industry-led welfare guidance system.
“It is now important for Defra to work with the veterinary profession, industry and all relevant stakeholders to find a way forward that ensures vital welfare codes can be brought up to date in an open way that instils public confidence,” said BVA president Sean Wensley.
While also pointing out that BVA had not opposed the concept of moving to non-statutory codes, some of which he said were in urgent need of updating, the president added: “We have questioned the way in which the consultation has taken place and raised concerns that public confidence could be undermined by a process that wasn’t sufficiently transparent.”
