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RUMA criticises EDM on antibiotic usage on farms
House of Commons Early Day Motion came under attack

The Responsible Use of Antibiotics in Farming Alliance (RUMA) has criticised a House of Commons early day motion (EDM) on the use of antibiotics in intensive farming, which called on the Government to take action to reduce the use of antibiotics by vets and farmers and to phase out the 'routine use' of prophylactic antibiotics in the interest of public health.

Motion 566 was not debated in the Commons, but secretary general of RUMA, John Fitzgerald, believes just the fact it was put forward demonstrates a lack of understanding of the basic facts.

He commented: "RUMA is disappointed by this EDM, which repeats and relies on some of the myths on the use of antibiotics in agriculture and the impact has on antibiotic resistance in humans.

"RUMA supports the responsible use of all medicines and is concerned that simplistic numerical targets of reduced use can encourage irresponsible use; for example reduced dosage or time of treatment, which would increase the risk of resistance."

He added: "There are many disease scenarios in livestock animals where prophylactic use of antibiotics is an essential part of responsible veterinary care for the protection of animal health and welfare

"It but be emphasised that any preventative and control treatment of animals is always under the control of the prescribing veterinary surgeon who will use diagnostic, clinical and epidemiological information to inform their prescribing decisions."

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.