Veterinary Laboratories Agency Annual Report 2006/07

The Veterinary Laboratories Agency (VLA), today announces publication of its 2006/2007 annual report and accounts. VLA Chief Executive, Professor Edwards, said: “I am pleased to be able to report a highly successful year for the Veterinary Laboratories Agency. Not only have we managed to meet our ministerial targets, we have also responded rapidly and effectively to outbreaks of avian influenza and Newcastle disease in the UK, for which the agency is the International Reference Laboratory. “We continue to play a key role as a global centre of expertise for Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies, including research into “atypical” forms of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy and our bacterial diseases programme continues to support Defra and other customers in protecting human health by developing early detection methods. “Our network of VLA regional laboratories continues to play a vital role in veterinary surveillance and diagnostic testing to support Defra’s animal health control policies. “Food safety is still a major priority. We continue to provide a veterinary public health strategy and advice to the Government, government agencies and other research bodies around the world. “Our commercial activities have increased during 2007 and agreements have been signed with two private companies to develop new molecular diagnostic assays. “Following the outcome of the Options Appraisal Study on the relationship between the VLA and the Institute of Animal Health (IAH), we have committed to working much more closely with the IAH. One of the outcomes will entail redeveloping virological facilities for both organisations at the Pirbright campus. “Later this year, the VLA will be subject to an independent audit of its scientific research, designed to ensure ‘the quality of science’ produced by Defra agencies.” The Veterinary Laboratories Agency provides services to both public and private sectors of the livestock, animal health and food industries in the area of animal disease surveillance, diagnostic services and veterinary scientific research. Further information can be found on www.vla.gov.uk

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