§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will ensure that anyone with a commercial interest in a designated establishment is not appointed as named veterinary surgeon for the establishment under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986, to avoid conflicts of interest.
§ Mr. Charles WardleMy right hon. and learned Friend cannot lawfully exclude all veterinary surgeons with a commercial interest in a designated establishment from being considered for appointment as named veterinary surgeon. The suitability of every proposed named veterinary surgeon is considered before inclusion in a certificate of designation; where my right hon. and learned Friend has any reason to doubt the suitability of the proposed appointment, he will require a new name to be suggested.