Memorandum submitted by P Hampson (Vet
03)
Enclosed is my written submission from a working
farriers viewpoint concerning the case for changes to the Veterinary
Surgeons Act and its possible implications for the regulation
of farriery.
I was trained and a Registered Shoeing Smith
before the current Farriers legislation. The Farriers Registration
council has historically had a strong veterinary input. The RSPCA
has increased animal welfare powers. The Farriers Registration
Act is out of step with the EU.
The Farriers Registration Act has had the following
effects:
(i) Produces a closed shop.
(ii) Entrance requirements to the trade has
become restrictive.
(iii) Exceeded its powers concerning employment
law (employers liability insurance family member exemption).
The Farriers Registration council have a proven
history of misappropriation of funds. The current legislation
is poorly drafted (bare foot trimmers). The Veterinary Services
Act will try to increase the Farriers Registration Council powers.
With in excess of 30 years of farriery legislation we like every
other country in the world have lame horses. Donkeys are not covered
by the Act and are the responsibility of the RSPCA.
My answer to all the terms of reference are
that we need deregulation not more regulation.
August 2007
| 
