MoneyAlistair CarmichaelThe Government is considering an independent regulator for when complaints cannot be resolved directly with a vet practice09:20, 09 Jul 2026Updated 09:23, 09 Jul 2026Millions of pet owners will be able to complain to a veterinary ombudsman under new proposals that have been published today.‌The Government is considering an independent regulator to give pet owners a “clear and straightforward route to redress” when complaints cannot be resolved directly with their vet practice.‌A newly released White Paper also outlines plans for vets to be subject to statutory regulation, inspections and published compliance reports.‌The White Paper has described the proposals as the biggest overhaul of veterinary regulation in 60 years.It comes after the Competitions and Markets Authority (CMA) published a list of reforms earlier this year to help lower costs and increase transparency for pet owners. These are also included in the White Paper.‌The competition watchdog said prescription fees should be capped at £21 and vets must publish a list of prices for common treatments. A price comparison website will also be introduced, the CMA said.Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Secretary Emma Reynolds said: “Pets are part of the family, but for too many households the cost of caring for them has become a real worry. These reforms will help owners avoid unexpected bills, compare prices more easily and get the best value care for their pets.“We’re modernising a system that hasn’t been updated for 60 years, putting pet owners first while giving vets the modern framework they need to support the future of the profession.”‌UK chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss said: “The veterinary profession has changed enormously over the past 60 years, but the legislation underpinning it has not kept pace.“This new framework will build a stronger, more resilient veterinary profession fit to meet the needs of the UK’s animal sector whilst ensuring the highest standards of care for our animals.”Competition and Markets Authority chief executive Sarah Cardell said: “We back the Government’s proposals, which include our recommendations on regulating the sector.‌“For the first time, these proposals would ensure that vet businesses are accountable to an independent regulator, while offering consumers more protection and a fairer deal.”Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee chairman Alistair Carmichael said: “We support the proposal for a new veterinary ombudsman and are glad to see ministers act on our recent recommendation.“We heard evidence that many in the veterinary workforce would also support this move.Article continues below“The industry is changing and so too should the way it is regulated, as happened previously in the legal and medical professions.”Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Alistair CarmichaelAnimals