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Evidence heard on circus bill
Government publishes written evidence on draft bill

 Following a draft bill aimed at banning the use of wild animals in travelling circuses in England, written evidence has been supplied by a range of organisations and individuals.

The draft bill was published by Defra on April 16, and will make it an offence for wild animals to be used in circuses for performance or exhibition from December 1, 2015.

Written evidence was published on the parliamentary website on May 28, and includes responses from the RSPCA, Captive Animal's Protection Society (CAPS) and the Born Free Foundation.

Whilst the legislation has been welcomed by animal welfare and conservation organisations, concerns have been raised by the fact that the bill does not specify that wild animals cannot travel with a circus.

If the bill goes through in England, this could permit wild animals to tour with a circus, but not perform or be exhibited. Therefore, circuses could transport animals to Wales or Scotland to perform.

The ongoing inquiry aims to scrutinise the draft bill in order to determine its effectiveness in banning the use of wild animals in circuses. 

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
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RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.