The Charges for Residues Surveillance Amendment (Scotland) Regulations 2026: equality impact assessment (EQIA)
The EQIA considers the potential impacts of the above Regulations, which updates fees in Scotland required to be paid in relation to surveillance of animals and animal products for residues of veterinary medicinal products and other substances.
Recommendations and Conclusion
Analysis of evidence indicates this instrument does not impact any particular group or protected characteristic, and therefore no changes have been made to the proposed policy and no further assessments are expected. No equality issues were highlighted that require mitigation. Provided the instrument is implemented as intended, there is no need for changes to the policy to safeguard groups with protected characteristics. It is anticipated that the Scottish Government will revisit the legislation within 5 years given the aim to continue delivering the programme on a full cost recovery basis. Business engagement with the programme will be monitored to gather evidence on its effectiveness and to inform any necessary amendments or equality obligations.
The PSED to prevent unlawful discrimination and advance equality of opportunity will be met by maintaining the current high standards of both proactive and reactive communication to stakeholders, industry and the public. The EQIA process reaffirms the Scottish Government’s commitment to developing better outcomes for people and communities and considering them throughout the policy process.
Contact
Email: animal.health@gov.scot