PROFESSOR CHARLES Milne has been appointed by ScotGov to to carry out an independent review of the animal health and welfare services delivered by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) in Scotland.

Rural Affairs Minister Mairi Gougeon commented: “We are absolutely committed to maintaining the highest standards of animal health and welfare in all circumstances.

“It is now eight years since the devolution of the animal health and welfare budget, and this review will ensure that current services continue to offer value for money. It will also highlight whether a different model could potentially deliver efficiencies and improve effectiveness.

“I am delighted that Professor Charles Milne has agreed to examine the strengths, weaknesses and opportunities of the existing and alternative Scottish field service models and will report back to me in early 2020.”

Professor Milne is a former Chief Veterinary Officer for both Scotland (2003-09), and the state of Victoria in Australia (2014-19)