NOAH (National Office for Animal Health) was joined by politicians and industry stakeholders in the House of Lords to highlight the vital role of the animal medicines industry for society and the food chain – essential for our high standards of animal health and welfare in the UK.
Proceedings were opened with a welcome from Lord Gardiner, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. “It is important, as an industry, we work together to ensure the right solutions for our country. Dialogue and liaison with the farming community is important to maintain the high standard of food produced in Great Britain and encourage consumption,” he explained. “This event celebrates what has been achieved so far and looks forward to the future.”
Host of the reception, and former President of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, Professor the Lord Trees, congratulated NOAH on 30 successful years of representing the UK animal medicines sector, “NOAH represents an industry which contributes greatly to the health and welfare of farm animals and pets in our care, through this it has a significant impact on society at large.
“Animals are a vital part in our society and millions of UK households have pets. Our farmers look after the health and welfare of over 140 million animals. Our pets bring so much value to people’s lives.
“Animal medicines are a strong pillar of support for our sustainable food security. Medicines help farmers provide us with a plentiful supply of feed which is safe, nutritious and affordable,” he said.
David Ellerton, past Chairman of NOAH, added, “Over the last 30 years, since NOAH was formed, our industry has seen many changes. Change is good. Change represents opportunities. As NOAH moves into its next 30 years, the UK is in a strong position to be a global centre of excellence for animal medicines and continue to safeguard animal health and welfare and public health and food safety.”
Assistance animals were also in attendance at the event to illustrate the effective, and increasing, role dogs are playing in human physical and mental health therapies. Charities represented included Caring Canines, Hounds for Heroes, Mayhew Therapaws and Support Dogs.
