§ Mr. PatersonTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what discussions he has had with(a) the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and (b) the British Veterinary Association concerning the English language skills of foreign-trained veterinary surgeons seeking employment in this country. [88294]
§ Ms QuinI can confirm that the Minister and appropriate officials have regular contact with representatives of both the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and the British Veterinary Association.
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons is obliged to register Veterinary Surgeons who have qualified from recognised establishments within the European Union. This is a reciprocal arrangement. Veterinary Surgeons who have qualified from non-European Union non-recognised establishments are required to pass a written examination (in English) before they can be registered with the college. Registration with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons is a pre-requisite to practising veterinary surgery.
§ Mr. Bob RussellTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what regulatory powers he has over the level of fees charged by veterinary surgeons; and if he will make a statement. [89967]
§ Ms QuinWe have no regulatory powers over the level of fees charged by veterinary surgeons in private veterinary practice. There is a free market in the provision of private veterinary services and animal owners may choose the veterinary practice which treats their animals.