The Veterinary Surgeons’ Qualifications (European Recognition) Order 2007

EXPLANATORY NOTE

(This note is not part of the Order)

This Order provides for the recognition by the United Kingdom of veterinary qualifications obtained in the accession states (Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia) as now set out in Articles 4b and 4c of and the Annex to Council Directive 78/1026/EEC (OJ No L 362, 23.12.78, p1). It sets out all veterinary qualifications that will be recognised from all member States.

The Order amends the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 (“the Act”) by —

(a) replacing subsections (1), (2) and (6), and inserting a new subsection (7) of section 5A of the Act;

(b) modifying and deleting some of the definitions in section 27 (interpretation) of the Act; and

(c) replacing Schedule 1A to the Act with the Schedule set out in paragraph 4 of the Schedule to this Order setting out the circumstances in which mutual recognition of veterinary qualifications:

(i) will apply, or

(ii) will not apply unless further conditions are met.

The Order amends the Veterinary Surgeons’ Qualifications (European Recognition) Order 2003 (“the 2003 Order”). It omits the definition of “EEA Agreement” and amends the definitions of “member State” and “the Recognition Directive” in article 2 (interpretation) of the 2003 Order.

A full regulatory impact assessment has not been produced for this instrument as no impact on the private or voluntary sectors is foreseen.