PART 9Charges for Veterinary Checks

Appeals against charges paid to local authorities59

1

Any person who has paid a charge for veterinary checks to a local authority, and any organisation representing such persons, may, within twenty-one days of the charge being made, appeal in writing on the ground that the amount of the charge is unreasonable–

a

to the Scottish Ministers, where the charge is for veterinary checks carried out otherwise than in relation to any function of the Agency; and

b

to the Agency, where the charge is for veterinary checks carried out in relation to any function of the Agency.

2

Where there is an appeal under paragraph (1), the Scottish Ministers or the Agency, as the case may be, must–

a

consult with the local authority; and

b

if satisfied that the amount of the charge is unreasonable, so inform the local authority.

3

When informed under paragraph (2)(b), the local authority must–

a

recalculate the amount of the charge in accordance with any directions given by the Scottish Ministers or the Agency, as the case may be; and

b

repay to the person who has paid the charge the difference between the original charge and the recalculated charge.