Consultation on proposed changes to imported veterinary medicines
Views sought on new proposals for batch testing and batch releasing of imported veterinary medicines in consultation that will run for four weeks
A consultation on proposals to change the Veterinary Medicines Regulations (VMR) for importing, batch testing and batch release of veterinary medicines has been launched today (Thursday 18th May).
Batch testing is the process that every veterinary medicine must go through to confirm it has the correct composition. It helps to ensure that medicines are high quality and have the desired therapeutic effect. Medicines are then released to the market.
The new proposals under consultation would apply to Great Britain and change rules on importation, batch testing and batch release of veterinary medicines, aiming to reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens on industry.
This consultation proposes recognising the batch testing and batch release of veterinary medicines in countries with equivalent regulatory standards, therefore eliminating the need for repeat batch testing and release when imported into Great Britain.
John Millward, Head of Inspections and Enforcement Division, Veterinary Medicines Directorate, said:
I am pleased to see the launch of this consultation, which focuses on very important requirements of our legislation.
We have listened to the views of our stakeholders over the last few years and we believe the resulting proposals balance their views, which are to reduce regulatory burden and enable them to cost-effectively import and release veterinary medicines with our responsibility to appropriately regulate those products being placed on the GB market.
Today’s announcement builds on the recent consultation on the Veterinary Medicines Regulations 2013 and wider changes to improve the supply of veterinary medicines. A critical tool to help protect animal health, public health and the environment, the Veterinary Medicines Regulations set out the controls on the marketing, manufacture, distribution, possession, and administration of veterinary medicines and medicated feed.
Access the consultation documents directly through Citizen Space. The closing date for responses is 15 June 2023.
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is a regulatory and policy lead body responsible for issues concerning the use and manufacture of veterinary medicines and medicated feed in the UK. Contact us at vmr@vmd.gov.uk.
ENDS