Explanatory note

This Order provides that wing and web tagging of birds other than farmed birds for conservation or research purposes are not subject to the prohibition on the practice of veterinary surgery by anyone who is not a qualified veterinary surgeon. Other instruments, The Mutilations (Permitted Procedures) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/1426) and The Mutilations (Permitted Procedures) (Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/3094), provide that wing and web tagging do not contravene the Animal Welfare Act 2006 (2006 c. 45), the relevant parts of which only apply in England and Wales. In Scotland the Prohibited Procedures on Protected Animals (Exemptions)(Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2009 (S.S.I. 2009/47) provide that wing and web tagging do not contravene section 20(1) and (2) of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 (2006 asp 11).

No impact assessment has been carried out for this instrument as it has no significant impact on the costs of business, charities, voluntary bodies or the public sector.