The Future of AHVLA Veterinary Laboratories in Wales

The Welsh Affairs Committee has decided to hold a one-off evidence session to investigate the future of Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) regional laboratories in Wales, following the announcement by AHVLA regarding the proposed discontinuation of laboratory services in Aberystwyth and Carmarthen.

Chair of the Welsh Affairs Committee, David T. C. Davies MP said,

“The cessation of veterinary laboratory testing in Carmarthen and Aberystwyth would result in job losses and potentially have a significant impact on the rural community in Wales. The Committee has therefore decided to hold an inquiry into this matter, looking into the process by which this decision was made and the impact that this decision might have on the monitoring and detection of animal disease in Wales”.

The Committee asks for written submissions  by Monday 21 November 2011. Earlier submissions are encouraged. The witnesses and date for the evidence session will be announced in due course.

The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee has announced it is holding an evidence session into AHVLA veterinary services in England: http://www.parliament.uk/efracom

Committee Membership is as follows: David T. C. Davies MP (Chair), Stuart Andrew MP, Guto Bebb MP, Geraint Davies MP, Jonathan Edwards MP, Mrs Siân C. James MP, Susan Elan Jones MP, Karen Lumley MP, Jessica Morden MP, Owen Smith MP, Robin Walker MP, and Mr Mark Williams MP.

Specific Committee Information: welshcom@parliament.uk tel: 020 7219 6189

Media Information: Jessica Bridges-Palmer bridgespalmerj@parliament.uk 020 7219 2003

Committee Website: http://www.parliament.uk/welshcom

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