The British Veterinary Association (BVA) called on the government to increase farmers' ability to reduce the use of antibiotics on farms by proposing measures such as stimulating improved livestock and biosafety.

More than 94% of veterinarians in large animals and mixed practices, as shown by a recent BVA study, are concerned about antimicrobial resistance, and 9 out of 10 veterinarians have added that they fear the potential inability of antibiotics to treat infections.

The BVA offers 15 comprehensive guidelines for responsible antimicrobial guidance for veterinarians, farmers, and government, the main ones of which are:

1. The duty of veterinarians to familiarize themselves with antimicrobial targets in their sector and continue to work with farmers and livestock holders to achieve them;
2. Farm support schemes should include the responsible use of antimicrobials;
3. The wish to the Government to actively use the various incentives to improve farming and biosafety measures on farms, as well as continue to work with veterinarians and industry to analyze and establish further rational goals through the RUMA Targets;
4. Development of effective diagnostic tools; more attention should be paid to improving surveillance and information sharing;

The BVA recommendations are based on a global commitment to protect antimicrobials for animal and human health.

Simon Doherty, president of the British Veterinary Association, said: "The Agriculture Bill provides an opportunity to further stimulate and empower farmers to work with their veterinarians to ensure the responsible use of antimicrobials."