Article 1

This Decision lays down certain rules relating to the on-the-spot checks carried out in the veterinary field in Member States by Commission experts.

For the purposes of this Decision, ‘on-the-spot checks in the veterinary field’ (hereinafter referred to as ‘checks’) means auditing actions necessary to ensure that the provisions of Community legislation are complied with in a uniform manner.

The provisions of this Decision shall apply without prejudice to the provisions of any agreements on sanitary measures applicable to trade in live animals and animal products reached between the European Community and third countries.