Overview

This bill amends the Farriers (Registration) Act 1975, altering the composition and procedures of the Farriers Registration Council and its committees (Investigating and Disciplinary). It aims to modernize the governance and ensure fair representation within the farriery profession.

Description

Council Constitution:

The bill revises the membership of the Farriers Registration Council. It specifies the number of members from different organizations (e.g., the Farriers Company, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, various equestrian bodies) and includes a lay member. The Council will create a scheme for appointing practising farriers, aiming for representation across Great Britain. The bill sets out terms of office, procedures for appointment and removal of members, and rules for meetings.

Committees:

The bill similarly overhauls the constitution of the Investigating and Disciplinary Committees. It details membership requirements, including the number of registered farriers, and prohibits members from simultaneously serving on multiple committees. The bill defines appointment terms, removal procedures, meeting quorums, and rules for conducting investigations and disciplinary hearings.

Secretary of State Powers:

The Secretary of State is granted the power to amend the Council and Committee constitutions via regulations, but this requires the consent of the Scottish and Welsh Ministers and consultation with the Council and other relevant parties. These regulations are subject to parliamentary scrutiny.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify any increase or decrease in government spending. The costs associated with the changes will likely be absorbed within the existing budget of the relevant government departments.

Groups Affected

• Farriers: The bill directly impacts registered farriers through changes to the regulatory body and disciplinary processes.
• Veterinary Surgeons: Representatives from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons will continue to be involved in the Council.
• Equestrian Organizations: Organizations like the British Horseracing Authority and the British Equestrian Federation will continue to be represented on the Council.
• Farriers Registration Council and its Committees: These bodies will undergo significant structural and procedural changes.
• The Secretary of State: This department will be responsible for implementing the bill and any subsequent regulations.
• Scottish and Welsh Ministers: Their consent is required for changes to the council and committee constitutions.

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