The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) last week published a working paper (1^st May) outlining potential remedies as part of its ongoing investigation of veterinary services for household pets in the UK. The British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA), as one of the main parties engaging with the CMA throughout its investigation, will review the draft recommendations in detail over the coming weeks ahead of providing a full response on behalf of its members.

Veterinary professionals are also encouraged to respond to the CMA consultation surrounding its draft package of measures, with a submission deadline of Tuesday 27^th May 2025 at 5.00pm.

Broadly, the remedies seek to address:

• Provision of clear and timely information in relation to vet practices, referral providers and treatments for their needs
• Pricing of medicines
• Competition in out of hours services
• Pricing of cremations
• An outdated regulatory framework which requires additional focus for consumers

BVNA President Lyndsay Hughes commented: “Throughout the CMA investigation, BVNA has been promoting the significant role of veterinary nurses in delivering high quality patient care, and in enhancing the relationship between the veterinary team, client and patient. We will be carefully reviewing the recommendations to provide a full formal response to the CMA; highlighting any possible unintended consequences to ensure that measures do not result in any negative impact on animal welfare, or on veterinary teams’ ability to provide patient care.

“However, we absolutely support the need for a well-functioning market, including greater transparency and improved communication with pet owners. We also welcome the CMA’s acknowledgement of the dedication shown by individual veterinary nurses and vets to their profession and the animals under their care.

“We are especially encouraged by the CMA’s draft remedies to promote more effective utilisation of veterinary nurses, including protection of the ‘veterinary nurse’ title, better clarification of the existing legislative framework, and future legislative reform to expand the RVN role. The CMA recognises the tangible positive impact made by veterinary nurses on the veterinary profession, animal welfare, plus market competition and ultimately pet owners and caregivers.

“BVNA will continue to provide a strong and clear voice for its members throughout the remainder of the CMA investigation. Veterinary nurses should be encouraged that these draft recommendations demonstrate that the CMA is listening, and values the significant contribution we make to delivering excellent patient care. We will continue to keep our members updated as the consultation and wider investigation continues.”

The full working paper outlining the CMA’s draft remedies can be found here.

The consultation surrounding this working paper and the likely impact of the remedies being considered, closes at 5pm on Tuesday 27^th May 2025. Responses from interested parties must be submitted to VetsMI@cma.gov.uk.