2610 Aberdeen-Angus Byelaws adopted 20260925 by The Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society

The Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society Byelaws

25th September 2026

Adopted ____________________

CONTENTS Clause

Page Number

Definition of Aberdeen-Angus Breed Standards

Eliminating Factors

The Aberdeen-Angus Pedigree Herd Book

Members and Breeders

Indebtedness to the Society

Entry to the Aberdeen-Angus Pedigree Herd Book

Grading-Up within the Supplementary Section of the Aberdeen-Angus Pedigree Herd Book 8

Fertilised Ovum Transplant (FOT), Including In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

Import and Export of Live Animals and Germplasm

10.

Semen Royalty Scheme

11.

DNA Profiling of Bulls & Females

12.

Herd Prefix and Animal Names

13.

Sire, Dam and Semen Ownership

14.

Transfers and De-Registrations

15.

Sales

16.

Shows

17.

Herd Inspections

18.

The role of the Review Committee

19.

Jurisdiction of the Review Committee

20.

Review Process

21.

Council's Consideration of the Review Committee Recommendations

22.

Notices of Findings, Measures and Sanctions

23.

Appeals against the First Council Decision

24.

The Appeal Panel

25.

The Appeal Process

26.

Cost of the Appeal

27.

Notice of Findings, Penalties and Appeals

28.

Website Precedence, Notices and Publication

29.

General Application and Interpretation.

Appendix 1 Definitions

Appendix 2 Requirements of the Zootechnical Certificate

Appendix 3 Summary of the Review Process

Appendix 4 Summary of the Appeal Process

Appendix 5 Health Requirements

Appendix 6 Herd-Book Registration Procedure

Part A — Registration

Part B — Applications under Byelaw 3.7.3

Definition of Aberdeen-Angus Breed Standards

1.1

This definition of the Aberdeen-Angus breed standard is based on and pertains to animals which are greater than three (3) generations of registered pedigree Aberdeen-Angus breeding and would be eligible for submission in the main section of the Aberdeen-Angus Herd Book as published by the Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society (the "Society") from time to time (the “Herd Book”). Depictions of Aberdeen-Angus cattle are available on the Society's website.

1.2

Aberdeen-Angus cattle have medium-frames, showing a long body with a deep rib and good rumen capacity. Animals are either solid black or red in colour. Contiguous white pigmentation of both hair and hide is only allowed below the abdominal line behind the navel/prepuce to the udder/testicles.

1.3

Shoulders and back are broad, level and well-fleshed, while leg muscling is deep and broad with an absence of typical double-muscling characteristics. Aberdeen-Angus animals have historically not been, and are now not generally carriers of the currently recognised myostatin deletions. The registration of animals carrying more than one copy of any and all myostatin deletions is not desirable nor encouraged.

1.4

A key breed characteristic of the Aberdeen-Angus is early maturity, a core component of inherent fertility. Their pelvis is long, broad and slightly inclined. Cows possess tight-fitting udders with short teats whilst bulls have testicles that are large, even and firm and possess a tight sheath.

1.5

Aberdeen-Angus cattle are genetically homozygous polled with no scurs. They possess a medium head, fine bone structure and a broad muzzle. They have a correctness of the limbs and well-proportioned short, solid claws. When walking, they demonstrate an even and well-balanced gait.

1.6

Animals demonstrating these characteristics along with a manageable disposition display good longevity which the breed is known for.

1.7

The Aberdeen-Angus as a recognised global brand is renowned for its high eating quality with an optimal red meat and fat balance.

Eliminating Factors

The following factors shall determine whether an animal is suitable for registration in the Herd Book: 2.1

Any characteristics contrary to the breed standard.

2.2

Any malformation of an individual animal or deviation from the breed standard.

2.3

Animals that do not conform to this Breed Standard, including the eliminating factors set out above, may be refused registration, restricted, reclassified, or excluded from the Herd Book in accordance with the Society's Byelaws governing Herd Book eligibility, entry, maintenance, and the approved Breeding Programme.

The Aberdeen-Angus Pedigree Herd Book

3.1

The Herd Book shall record particulars of eligible Aberdeen-Angus cattle and any other information that the Council may determine from time to time. At the discretion of the Council, information on any animal recorded in the Herd Book, including genetic details, may be published where the Council considers such publication to support accuracy, transparency, or the development of the breed.

3.2

The Society maintains an approved Breeding Programme in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2016/1012 on zootechnical and genealogical conditions for breeding animals, any amendment to said regulation and any successor regulation. The detailed rules governing herd-book structure, eligibility, entry, performance recording, and genetic evaluation are set out in the Breeding Programme as approved by the competent authority. A copy of the Breeding Programme is available on the Society's website.

3.3

The Society shall recognise the Aberdeen-Angus or Angus herd books maintained by other recognised breeding organisations or competent authorities under the Zootechnical Regulation, where such herd books relate to the same breed and are operated in accordance with equivalent breeding programme standards and where the Society is satisfied that the herd book and associated breeding programme maintain standards of genetic integrity, performance recording, and breed definition that are materially equivalent to those of the Society. The Society's determination shall be final, having applied the criteria set out in the Zootechnical Regulations and the Society's published Breeding Programme.

3.4

Sections of the Herd Book The Aberdeen-Angus Pedigree Herd Book has the following distinct separate sections:

3.5

3.4.1

Main Herd Book: Animals of full Aberdeen-Angus Pedigree that satisfy all Aberdeen-Angus breed standards.

3.4.2

3.4.3

Supplementary Register: Base animals and animals bred from base animals for the purposes of grading up will be maintained in a Supplementary section of the herd book (also referred to as the Supplementary Register). The purpose of the Supplementary Register is for the recording of animals which do not meet the parentage criteria of the main herd book but are judged by the Society to comply with Aberdeen-Angus breed standard. The aim of the Supplementary Register is to enable progeny to subsequently be upgraded to the main section of the Herd Book subject to the procedure as laid down in Byelaw 7.

The Society shall, subject to Byelaw 3.9, consider entries seeking to be registered in the Herd Book by Members and Breeders, or their authorised representative(s). Animal Entry

3.6

The Society shall consider entries for the Herd Book from Eligible Breeders in accordance with the approved Breeding Programme. Applications for entry shall only be accepted when accompanied by the prescribed fees in full. Entries shall be recorded under the rules of the breeding programme. Rights and privileges in relation to prefixes, naming conventions, preferential fees, and access to Society services are reserved exclusively to Members

3.7

An entry for registration must be submitted by the Breeder, except in the following cases: 3.7.1

in the case of a foundation animal registered as a Base Female for grading-up purposes, such registration must be submitted by the Owner;

3.7.2

in the case of an animal imported into the United Kingdom by a Member from an Eligible Third Country, such registration must be submitted by the Owner; or

3.7.3

in any other case as the Society Council may from time to time determine is necessary for the proper maintenance of the Herd Book, subject to the relevant applicant complying with the process as set out in Appendix 6 and paying the relevant non-refundable fee as set out by the Society Council from time to time.

3.8

For the purposes of paragraph 3.7, the Breeder of an animal is the registered keeper of the dam at the time the animal is born. In the case of an embryo calf, the Breeder is deemed to be the bona fide owner of the embryo at the time the calf is born.

3.9

The Society may, at any time before or after an animal is entered in the Herd Book, carry out any enquiries or investigations it considers reasonable in the interests of its Members, for the purpose of Herd Book integrity.

3.10

The Society may, at its discretion, refuse or suspend access to services or privileges for any Breeder or Member who is in arrears or whose conduct is, in the opinion of the Society, detrimental to its interests. This provision shall not affect the Society's statutory obligations in relation to the Herd Book.

3.11

The Council shall have absolute discretion to place an entry within the Herd Book in a manner as is required to maintain the unimpaired purity of the breed known as Aberdeen-Angus cattle and to promote the breeding of cattle to meet the Aberdeen-Angus breed standards.

3.12

The genetic information contained within the Herd Book in relation to an animal is based on the information made available to the Society at the time of entry into the Herd Book. Save as required by the Zootechnical Regulation, the Society does not make any representation nor give any warranty that such genetic information is accurate, complete, reliable or up to date, and it should be acknowledged that such information may change over time as records are updated, corrected or amended. The Society accepts no responsibility or liability for any reliance placed on that information, nor for any losses (direct or indirect), damages, costs or expenses whatsoever arising from any use of or reliance on that information by any person.

3.13

The Society may, at any time, withdraw or amend the entry of any animal in the Herd Book if: 3.13.1

required information is missing;

3.13.2

the entry contains false or inaccurate particulars or statements;

3.13.3

the entry was made on the basis of false or inaccurate particulars or statements provided to the Society; or

3.13.4 3.14

the entry is found to be in contravention of the Aberdeen-Angus naming standards as laid down in Byelaw 12. Upon withdrawal of an entry, any certificate of registration issued by the Society for that animal shall be deemed invalid. Any such decision affecting Herd Book status shall be subject to the Society's Review and Appeals procedures, save where immediate action is required to meet statutory or Zootechnical obligations. Any false declaration, inaccurate particulars or statement may be referred for review in accordance with Byelaw 20.

3.15

Entries of animals owned by Breeders shall have equal status.

Members and Breeders

4.1

Membership of the Society confers additional rights and privileges in relation to the naming of animals, use of herd prefixes, Members' fees, and access to Member services. The Society may sub-categorise such Members into groups

4.2

Breeders who are non-members may present eligible animals for herd-book entry and participation in the breeding programme in accordance with the published rules of the programme and on payment of the prescribed Breeders' fees.

4.3

The acts and omissions of any person or persons who own animals jointly with any Breeder or Member of the Society shall for all the purposes of these Byelaws and the Articles of Association of the Society be treated as the acts and omissions of such Breeders or Members.

4.4

Members 4.4.1

Members shall agree to read and abide by the Governing Documents.

4.4.2

The responsibility for the accuracy of all information and particulars supplied rests solely with the Member. Members are accountable for the actions of their Representatives, including but not limited to staff, family members, and contractors.

4.4.3

It shall be the duty of every Member of the Society to notify the Society in writing, without delay, upon discovery of any potential or alleged misrepresentation, inaccuracy, or irregularity concerning: (i) the particulars furnished by any Member or other person with reference to the pedigree or identity of any animal; (ii)

the entry of any animal in the Herd Book; or

(iii)

the notification of the birth of any animal,

and to assist the Society in its investigation of every such case when called upon to do so. 4.4.4

4.5

Knowingly providing false or inaccurate information relating to the pedigree, identity, birth, exhibition, sale, or transfer of any animal, or showing gross carelessness and/or negligence in keeping Herd Book particulars or statutory animal records, shall be treated as conduct derogatory to the Society and prejudicial to the Society's interests under its Articles of Association. Controlled Substances 4.5.1

The administration or use of any performance-enhancing drugs, stimulants, tranquilisers, or other substances not approved for bovine use by the relevant regulatory authority at the time of the incident, by a Member or their authorised representative, on any animal registered or eligible for registration, shall be deemed conduct detrimental to the character and prejudicial to the interests and reputation of the Society under its Articles of Association.

4.5.2

4.6

The administration or use of any substance approved for bovine use by the relevant regulatory authority which, in the circumstances of its use, is detrimental to the character of the animal or prejudicial to the interests or reputation of the Society under its Articles of Association, shall be prohibited. Conduct of Members Members of the Society agree: 4.6.1

To be bound by and to comply with the Governing Documents.

4.6.2

To be bound by and to comply with the Society's Policies, copies of which can be found on the Society's website www.aberdeen-angus.co.uk.

4.6.3

To uphold at all times the approved breed standards of the Society.

4 4.6.4

4.7

To submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of any first instance Review Committee and subsequent Appeal Panel convened under these Byelaws to hear and determine complaints of misconduct and any other matters referred to such Committees under Byelaws 18 to 27.

No Member shall 4.7.1

Conduct themselves in any context or environment falling within the Society's management or responsibility in a manner which is threatening or abusive to the public, Members, Breeders or Society Representatives, or which is otherwise so contemptuous, offensive or harmful as to bring the Society, its interests or the breed into disrepute.

4.7.2

Use threatening, abusive words or behaviour, behave uncivilly or show contempt or disrespect to a Society Representative, judge, employee, Member, Breeder or officer of the Society at an Event under the auspices of the Society.

4.7.3

Breach or permit any person acting on their behalf to breach, any of the Governing Documents. A Member will be deemed in breach if the conduct of such a person, had they been a Member, would itself constitute a breach.

4.7.4

Conduct themselves in a manner which in the opinion of the Society is detrimental to the character and/or prejudicial to the interests of the Society.

4.7.5

Unreasonably fail or refuse to assist Society Representatives, the Chief Executive Officer or the Review Committee in their investigations of complaints of misconduct, potential misconduct or other breaches or potential breaches of any Governing Documents.

4.7.6

Make, either orally or in writing, to a Society Representative, a statement on any matter covered by the Byelaws which they know to be untrue or has no reasonable grounds to believe is true.

4.7.7

Enter an animal for sale or any event held under the auspices of the Society knowing, or having reasonable grounds to believe, that it will not comply with any Governing Documents.

4.7.8

4.8

Exercise any of the rights or privileges of membership, while suspended therefrom nor assist represent or act on behalf of any other Member of the Society while suspended from all rights and privileges of membership. For the purposes of Byelaws 4.7.1 and 4.7.2, Members shall only be considered in breach where their conduct is of a severity warranting formal investigation by the Council, having regard to whether: 4.8.1

the conduct in question was: (i)

deliberate or reckless (as opposed to accidental or indirectly arising from the relevant Member's actions); or

(ii)

inadvertent; or

(iii)

part of a pattern of repeated conduct (which the Review Committee may determine as evidence of deliberate or reckless conduct);

4.8.2

a reasonable person present at the time of such conduct would have regarded the conduct as genuinely offensive, threatening or contemptuous, rather than robust, forthright or expressing legitimate disagreement; and

4.8.3

the conduct caused, or was likely to cause, material harm to the reputation of the Society and/or any of its Members, Breeders or other representatives.

4.9

When considering whether to refer any matter to the Review Committee, the Chief Executive Officer of the Society shall undertake an assessment as to whether, on a prima facie basis, the conduct falls within the terms of Byelaw 4.8. In the event that the Chief Executive Officer is conflicted or otherwise unavailable for any reason, such review shall be undertaken by the President of the Society. In the event that the President is also conflicted or otherwise unavailable for any reason the Executive Committee (excluding any conflicted members) shall undertake such assessment. If, following such assessment, it is considered that the threshold is not met the complainant shall be informed in writing with a brief summary of the reasoning for such determination.

4.10

Any assessment made in respect of conduct under these Byelaws shall be recorded in writing by the Society.

4.11

Breeders (Non-members) 4.11.1

In respect of non-members who breed, and own animals entered and/or registered in the Herd Book, the status of such animals in the Herd Book shall be at the absolute discretion of the Society mindful of the Society's statutory obligations. The Society may exercise such discretion independently of any other Byelaw.

4.11.2

The charges for non-member breeders seeking animal registration in the Aberdeen-Angus herd book shall be detailed on the Society's website.

Indebtedness to the Society

5.1

Applications for herd-book entry must be accompanied by the prescribed fees in full. No entry shall be processed until such fees have been paid. Indebtedness to the Society shall not affect the Society's statutory obligations in respect of the Herd Book but may result in suspension or withdrawal of all other services and privileges, including but not limited to naming rights, prefix licences, eligibility for Society sales and shows, and participation in promotional schemes.

5.2

Any Member or Breeder who fails to pay for goods or services supplied by the Society or related parties may be notified in writing of their non-compliance or indebtedness. If the debt is not fully paid by the date stipulated in the notice, their membership may be suspended or terminated.

5.3

Any Member or Breeder who has a debt (or debts) owed to the Society which singly or in aggregate are more than £1,000 and which is/are outstanding for more than 90 days shall have their ability to access further services from the Society suspended and their case referred to the Society Council for further consideration.

Entry to the Aberdeen-Angus Pedigree Herd Book

6.1

Scope, Legal Basis, and Interpretation

6.2

6.1.1

The Society maintains a Herd Book consistent with the requirements of applicable zootechnical legislation in the United Kingdom (the "Zootechnical Regulation").

6.1.2

Nothing in these Byelaws shall be applied in a manner that conflicts with the Zootechnical Regulation or competent authority guidance. Where a conflict is identified, the Zootechnical Regulation prevails and this Byelaw shall be interpreted accordingly.

6.1.3

Terms used herein have the meanings given in the Society's Definitions and relevant Byelaws (e.g., FOT/IVF, DNA, Import/Export).

Eligibility for Entry (Pedigree Prerequisites) 6.2.1

To be eligible for entry in the main section of the Herd Book (other than by Base Female route under the Supplementary Register Byelaw), an animal must be born of parents and grandparents whose entries are already registered in a recognised Aberdeen-Angus herd book approved under the Zootechnical Regulation, or in a recognised third-country herd book meeting equivalent standards.

6.2.2

Animals must be first registered in a recognised Aberdeen-Angus herd book approved under the Zootechnical Regulation (or, where applicable, an equivalent system in a third country). Imported cattle and embryos must be accompanied by a valid zootechnical/export certificate issued by the herd book of origin. For the avoidance of doubt, the Society will not accept animals first registered in any breed register, book, or database in the United Kingdom unless that herd book has been formally recognised under zootechnical legislation by the competent UK authority.

6.2.3

6.3

6.4

To be eligible for entry into the main section, animals must also comply with the "three-generation rule" under the Zootechnical Regulation (subject to grading-up provisions under the Supplementary Register Byelaw). Herd Book of Origin and Duplicate Entries 6.3.1

Where an animal has been entered in more than one herd book, the entry in the herd book of origin, as defined under the Zootechnical Regulation, shall take precedence. The Society will not accept duplicate or secondary entries that conflict with the pedigree, genetic status, or annotations recorded in the herd book of origin.

6.3.2

The Society's determination shall be final, having applied the criteria set out in the Zootechnical Regulations and the Society's published Breeding Programme.

Registration Process and Required Information 6.4.1

Registration may be made by (a) Society-approved online registration or (b) paper/postal forms as made available by the Society.

6.4.2

The applicant must provide the required registration information set out on the Society's website, reflecting Zootechnical requirements and the Society's Byelaws, and certify it is correct.

6.5

6.6

6.4.3

Members must review issued pedigree certificates for accuracy. Errors caused by incorrect information from the applicant remain the applicant's responsibility. False or misleading information is misconduct under the Society's Review and Complaints procedure.

6.4.4

The information required for compliance with the Zootechnical Regulation (e.g., identification, parentage, breeder/owner) is published on the Society's website. Later-life information must be supplied when available so that certificates remain compliant.

Intimation of Births (Non-registration Birth Notification) 6.5.1

All calves born to registered females not registered within twenty seven (27) days of birth should be intimated within that period. No fee applies. Fully registered calves within 27 days need not be intimated.

6.5.2

Crossbred calves born to registered cows should also be intimated within 27 days.

6.5.3

Dead calves born to registered cows must be intimated within 27 days.

6.5.4

Intimations are submitted through the Society database using the same basic information as registrations.

Registration Windows and Time Limits 6.6.1

Registration windows in respect of fee banding purposes are defined by calf age at the point all required information is received: Up to 6 months 6–12 months Over 12 months

6.7

6.8

6.9

6.6.2

No male over twenty-four (24) months of age and no female over forty-two (42) months of age will be accepted for first registration in the Herd Book, save for the Base Female exception in the Supplementary Register Byelaw.

6.6.3

In the case of first-calving females requiring DNA verification, the registration window is determined by the date the application was submitted, provided all other requirements are met.

6.6.4

Performance and evaluation data submitted from animals registered after twelve (12) months of age will be recorded by the Society for herd record purposes only. Such data will not be included in official Society performance recording or genetic evaluation programmes.

6.6.5

Animals first registered after twelve (12) months of age shall not be eligible to participate in shows, sales, or other events under the Society's auspices or control.

Birth Weights 6.7.1

For calves born on or after 1 January 2026, a birth weight (actual or estimated) must be provided at birth notification or registration.

6.7.2

Actual weights taken within 48 hours of birth using calibrated scales, or weights obtained using a Society-accepted calibrated weight tape (e.g. around the cannon bone above the hoof), are both considered acceptable measures.

6.7.3

Estimated weights based on visual assessment may also be submitted where handling or facilities do not allow weighing or measurement without unreasonable risk.

6.7.4

The Society may note the method of collection (scale, tape, or estimate) in herd records and may take method of collection into account when using weights for evaluation or reporting.

Artificial Insemination (AI) 6.8.1

Calves produced by AI will be designated as such in the Herd Book.

6.8.2

"Do it Yourself" AI: keep insemination records (dates and identifiers) for at least three (3) years. Independent AI providers' documentation and invoices must be retained for at least three (3) years.

6.8.3

Semen must be collected, processed, traded, imported, exported, and used in compliance with applicable animal health, genetic resource, and zootechnical legislation. Additional conditions are set out in the Society's relevant Byelaws, including (but not limited to) Byelaw 11, Import/Export Byelaw, FOT/IVF Byelaw, and Byelaw 10.

Multiple Births 6.9.1

If an animal is a twin or otherwise part of a multiple birth, this must be notified to the Society, including the sex of the other calves, and will be noted against the registration entry.

6.9.2

6.10

6.11

6.12

Incomplete or Stalled Applications 6.10.1

Any registration application incomplete for one (1) year due to missing or inaccurate information will be deemed void and ineligible for registration.

6.10.2

Fees paid in respect of such applications will be forfeited to the Society and not refunded.

Pedigree Certificates 6.11.1

Upon entry, the Society shall issue a pedigree certificate (electronic or paper) containing the information required by law and the relevant Governing Documents. DNA testing status will be shown in line with Byelaw 11 and the Zootechnical Regulation.

6.11.2

Export pedigree certificates are issued on request, subject to fee payment and compliance with Import/Export Byelaw requirements.

Phenotype, Breed Standards and Zootechnical Compliance 6.12.1

6.13

6.14

Eligibility for shows, sales, and Society programmes is subject to the Breed Standards Byelaw. Where an animal is found not to conform to the Breed Standard, its eligibility for registration, continued inclusion, classification within the Herd Book, or participation in the Breeding Programme shall be determined in accordance with the Society's Herd Book governance and eligibility Byelaws and the approved Breeding Programme. The Society Council’s decision (or the decision of the appropriate committee or sub-committee of the Society Council) shall be final.

Cloning, Genetic Engineering, and Modified Germplasm 6.13.1

Cloned animals: Animals born as a direct result of Cloning are not eligible for registration.

6.13.2

Genetic Engineering and Modified Animals or Germplasm:

6.13.3

Use of genetically engineered or genetically modified animals or Germplasm must comply with the law in the relevant UK jurisdiction(s). Where prohibited by law, such animals or Germplasm are ineligible for registration.

6.13.4

Where permitted by law, any such animal must be declared at the time of registration and will be clearly designated on the pedigree certificate.

6.13.5

The Society does not encourage the use of GE/GM technologies in Aberdeen-Angus breeding and reserves the right to restrict the eligibility of such animals for Society programmes (including sales, shows, and performance schemes), provided such restrictions are consistent with the Zootechnical Regulation.

6.13.6

The Council may review and amend its policy on GE/GM animals and Germplasm in light of legal, scientific, or industry developments. This may include revising eligibility for registration of resulting progeny or their participation in Society programmes, subject always to compliance with the Zootechnical Regulation and applicable law. Any such decisions will be published transparently.

Tagging and Identification 6.14.1

6.15

Where the calf is a female twin to a bull (a Freemartin), registration information may be held for up to two (2) years to determine breeding capability and shall then be charged a registration fee as appropriate to the prevailing rate at time of original registration notification.

All animals presented for herd book entry must be identified/tagged in accordance with statutory requirements in the relevant jurisdiction.

Records, Verification and Accuracy 6.15.1

Breeders/owners must keep herd records with at least: name, Herd Book number, date of birth, sire/dam identifiers, acquisitions/disposals, and date of death. Records must be available for inspection by authorised Society officials. Upon the receipt of a written request from the Society a Member shall, within 21 days of the date of such request, bring their herd register fully up to date save where an inspection is due to take place in accordance with Byelaw 17.2.2 where the time periods referred to therein shall apply.

6.15.2

The Council may instruct verification testing, including DNA parentage checks, on any animal. Where such testing confirms the accuracy of the registration, the cost will be met by the Society. Where the registration is found to be inaccurate, incomplete, or fraudulent, the Society may amend or cancel the entry in line with law and these Byelaws, and all associated testing costs shall be borne by those responsible.

6.15.3

Knowingly supplying or having reason to believe false or misleading information is being provided to the Society is misconduct under the Society's Byelaws.

6.16

Fees and Who May Register 6.16.1

Current fees and charges are published on the Society's website and may be varied from time to time by the Council.

6.16.2

Applications will only be finalized once all applicable fees have been remitted to the Society.

6.16.3

The Society accepts registrations from both Members and non-members. Non-members will be charged three (3) times the published Member fee for those services to which they are entitled.

6.16.4

Registration will not be refused solely on the basis of membership status. However, where a Member has unpaid subscriptions or other outstanding charges, the Society may require that registrations be processed at the published non-member rate until such arrears are settled.

Grading-Up within the Supplementary Section of the Aberdeen-Angus Pedigree Herd Book

7.1

Cattle entered in the main section of the Herd Book include all animals meeting the minimum 'three generation requirements' of the Zootechnical Regulation. Progression through, and continued inclusion within, the Supplementary Register and any grading-up stage is conditional upon compliance with the Aberdeen-Angus Breed Standard and the Society's approved Breeding Programme and these Byelaws.

7.2

Grading-Up of progeny born of females in the Supplementary Section. 7.2.1

In accordance with the Zootechnical Regulation the Society maintains a Supplementary Section within the herd book which enables the grading up of progeny from animals entered to the gradingup section of the Supplementary Section. Such grading up animals are not within the main section of the Herd Book.

7.2.2

The Society may require DNA or other verification testing at any stage of grading-up in order to confirm parentage, genetic integrity, and compliance with the Breed Standard and genetic requirements of the approved Breeding Programme.

7.2.3

Where testing or other verification identifies genetic characteristics or conditions that are inconsistent with the Breed Standard or which would prevent eligibility for eventual entry into the Main Section of the Herd Book, the animal shall not be eligible to progress further within the grading-up process. In such circumstances, the Society may discontinue grading, reclassify the animal, or withdraw its entry from the Supplementary Register in accordance with the Society's Herd Book governance and eligibility Byelaws.

7.2.4

Only Females which are the progeny of animals already entered in the grading-up section of the Supplementary Section may be entered into the main section of the Herd Book where they meet the following conditions: (i)

Its mother and maternal grandmother are entered in a supplementary section of a recognised Aberdeen-Angus Pedigree Herdbook; and

(ii)

Its father and two grandfathers are entered in the main section of a recognised Aberdeen-Angus Pedigree Herd Book

For Clarity:

(iii)

A 'base cow' is a female that is at least 50% Aberdeen-Angus, being the progeny of one cross from an Aberdeen-Angus bull entered in the main section of a recognised Aberdeen-Angus Pedigree herd book, on a cow suitable for the establishment of a grading-up programme, conforming to an Aberdeen-Angus breed type.

(iv)

Base cows will be entered into the Supplementary section of the Herd Book at a grade of 50%

(v)

Breeding details of base cows will be held within the Supplementary section of the Herd Book

(vi)

A base cow may be registered at the discretion of the Society, for the basic fee set by the Society from time to time and published on their website.

(vii)

Breeders may enter base cows in the Supplementary section of the Herd Book subject to approval by the Society through an appointed inspector (or inspectors) and payment of any inspection fee as determined from time to time by the Society.

(viii)

Percentage grades shall be published at the Society's discretion for animals registered in the Supplementary section of the Herd Book.

(ix)

7.2.5

For the purposes of the calculation and publication of grade percentages, all percentages will be whole numbers. Therefore, 0.49 and below will be rounded down and 0.5 and above will be rounded up. For example, a grade percentage of 87.5% would be rounded up to 88%. Males bred from graded-up animals may only be registered in the main section of the Herd Book if their sire and dam are also registered within the main section of a recognised Aberdeen-Angus Pedigree Herd Book. For clarity:

Males may not be registered within the Supplementary section of the herd book. 7.3

7.4

7.5

Import of Grade up Animals 7.3.1

All imported embryos, semen and live animals must conform to the requirements of the Zootechnical Regulation to be included in the Herd Book and its Supplementary Section.

7.3.2

It shall be Breeders' responsibility to check in advance that embryos or semen they wish to import to or export from the U.K. comply with all regulations of the relevant recognised Aberdeen-Angus herd books.

7.3.3

The Society will enter into the breeding book, animals of the same breed, line or cross that are eligible for entry under the Society's breed criteria, without discrimination on account of their country of origin.

Sales of Grade up Animals 7.4.1

At the Society's discretion, all grade percentages relating to animals registered within the Supplementary Section of the herd book will be published in the catalogues of Society sales, along with any other genetic details at the time of entry and any wider information the Society deem appropriate and relevant.

7.4.2

Only cattle that are registered in the Main Section of a recognised Aberdeen-Angus Pedigree Herd Book will be eligible for sale at official sales of the Society. Cattle registered in the Main and Supplementary sections of recognised Aberdeen-Angus Pedigree Herd Books will be eligible for sale at a production, reduction or dispersal sale.

Show Recommendations for Grade up Animals The Society only has jurisdiction over the Winter National and Summer National shows. It has no jurisdiction over show societies in determining the eligibility for Aberdeen-Angus classes. The recommendation given to show societies when requested is that only cattle registered in the Main Section of a recognised Aberdeen-Angus Pedigree Herd Book should be eligible for entry.

Fertilised Ovum Transplant (FOT), Including In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

8.1

Introduction Cattle born as a result of the transplantation of a fertilised ovum (FOT) or produced through in vitro fertilisation (IVF) shall be eligible for registration in the Herd Book, subject to:

8.2

8.3

8.4

8.5

8.6

8.1.1

all applicable statutory requirements issued by the competent authority of the United Kingdom; and

8.1.2

any conditions agreed between the Society and relevant breeding or industry bodies,

8.1.3

in accordance with the Zootechnical Regulation governing the authorisation of breeding programmes and entry into herdbooks.

General 8.2.1

Registration under this Byelaw is subject to compliance with all other Herd Book Byelaws and regulations in force.

8.2.2

No calf born by FOT / IVF shall be registered in the Herd Book unless every condition stated in these regulations has been fully satisfied.

Basic Qualifications for the Acceptance of a Donor Cow 8.3.1

The Donor Cow must be an Aberdeen-Angus female registered in the main section of a herdbook recognised under the Zootechnical Regulation.

8.3.2

All donor females shall be DNA-profiled by a society-recognised testing agency to the standard set out in Byelaw 8.9, and the profile shall be supplied to the Society in an acceptable format for traceability and parentage verification.

Basic Qualifications for the Use of a Sire for FOT / IVF 8.4.1

The sire must be an Aberdeen-Angus bull registered in the main section of a herdbook recognised under the Zootechnical Regulation and shall have a DNA Profile recorded with a recognised testing agency to the standard set out in Byelaw 8.9.

8.4.2

Imported semen from a bull registered in a Society-recognised Aberdeen-Angus herdbook in its country of origin, and DNA-profiled by a recognised agency, shall also be eligible, provided it meets all Herd Book eligibility and United Kingdom import and health certification requirements.

8.4.3

Where the breeder is not the owner of the sire, proof of authorised semen use (for example, a Hire or Loan Certificate) must accompany the registration.

The Recipient Dam 8.5.1

The Recipient Dam must be individually identified with an approved ear tag. Her identification number, date of birth, and breed type shall be recorded in the Society's FOT / IVF documentation and must correspond to official movement and identification records as required by United Kingdom law.

8.5.2

A pregnancy confirmation certificate for the Recipient Dam shall be provided if requested by the Society.

Procedures for the Registration of an FOT / IVF Calf 8.6.1

Breeders shall notify the Society in advance of each intended FOT / IVF procedure using the Society's approved forms.

8.6.2

All required certificates and fees shall be submitted within the time periods prescribed by the Society.

8.6.3

The registration of an FOT / IVF calf shall be accepted by the Society upon receipt of: (i)

a completed Birth Registration Application;

(ii)

a hair or tissue sample for the calf, which must subsequently have its parentage confirmed against both sire and dam;

(iii)

the relevant registration fee set by the Society from time to time and published on their website; and

(iv)

for all FOT / IVF calves born on or after 1 October 2020, the appropriate implant forms — ET1 (at flushing / collection) and ET2 (at implantation) — must be submitted to the Society.

(v)

The calf's registration shall remain provisional until implant details and parentage have been verified.

(vi)

8.7

Breeders shall retain copies of all ET1 and ET2 forms for a minimum of three years and shall supply copies to the Society upon request.

8.6.4

Parentage verification shall be completed within the period prescribed by the Society, normally within three months of request. The Society reserves the right to refuse registration where documentation or verification is incomplete, inconsistent, or otherwise unsatisfactory.

8.6.5

All calves registered under this Byelaw shall be designated "got by FOT / IVF" in the Herd Book.

Legacy Domestic Embryos 8.7.1 This Byelaw applies to an embryo collected and frozen within the United Kingdom prior to the general commercial availability of DNA parentage testing in the UK cattle industry, where no DNA Sample from the sire and/or dam exists or has ever been taken, and where no ET1/ET2 documentation was created because none was then required. 8.7.2

Where Byelaw 8.7.1 applies, the requirement for a DNA Profile of the sire and/or dam under Byelaws 8.3, 8.4 or 8.9 shall not apply, on the basis that such a profile was never technologically obtainable at the material time, rather than merely unavailable. No certification of unobtainability under Byelaw 8.10.3 is required in these circumstances; the historic date of collection is itself sufficient evidence.

8.7.3

Parentage shall instead be established by reference to the contemporaneous entries for the sire and dam in the Society's own Herd Book records at the time of collection, together with such flushing, veterinary, or ownership records as the breeder is able to produce. The Society shall be the final arbiter of whether the documentary evidence produced is sufficient to establish parentage on the balance of probability. Chain of Custody

8.7.4

The Breeder shall provide a written declaration accounting for the storage history of the embryo from collection to the point of registration, including: the identity of the storage facility or facilities used; any transfer of the material between facilities, owners, or storage tanks; and confirmation that the identification of the straw(s) has remained legible and traceable throughout. Where the chain of custody cannot be fully evidenced, the Society may, at its discretion, still accept the registration on the basis of the best available evidence, but shall record the registration as subject to an incomplete chain-of-custody history under Byelaw 8.7.6.

8.7.5

The resulting calf shall, notwithstanding Byelaw 8.7.2, be DNA-profiled to the Society's standard at the owner's expense upon registration, in the same manner as any other calf. This does not verify parentage against the sire or dam (no reference profile existing to test against) but establishes the calf's own profile on record for all other purposes, including future retrospective use under Byelaw 11. Permanent Annotation

8.7.6

Any entry made under this Byelaw shall be permanently annotated on the animal's Herd Book record as parentage established by historic documentary evidence only, with no DNA comparison against sire or dam possible. Unlike an entry accepted under Byelaw 8.10.3, this annotation shall not be capable of later conversion to a DNA-verified status in respect of the sire or dam, as no reference material can ever come into existence.

8.7.7

Where DNA profiling of the calf under Byelaw 8.7.5 discloses a breed composition or other result manifestly inconsistent with the declared parentage, the matter shall be referred for consideration under the Society's ordinary Herd Book integrity and misdescription provisions, notwithstanding that no fault attaches to the original documentary registration under Byelaws 8.7.1 to 8.7.4. Executive Committee Approval

8.7.8

No registration under this Byelaw shall be entered into the Herd Book unless first approved by a quorum of the Executive Committee, excluding any conflicted members, in addition to the Chief Executive Officer's administrative determination under Byelaw 8.7.3. The Executive Committee's approval, and its reasoning, shall be recorded in writing.

8.8

Export of Embryos In accordance with Article 35(2) of the Zootechnical Regulation, any embryo intended for export shall be accompanied by an Export Certificate issued by the Society. The certificate shall verify the identity, parentage, and zootechnical eligibility of the embryo for trade within or outside the United Kingdom.

8.9

Genetic Verification Standard

12 8.9.1

8.9.2

8.10

Where these Byelaws require a DNA Profile of a Donor Cow, sire, or imported embryo's parents, the required standard shall be, in order of preference: (i)

an ICAR554-equivalent SNP profile or higher; failing which

(ii)

an ISAG200 SNP profile; failing which

(iii)

an STR profile, where SNP testing is not available from the animal or the recognised herd book of origin.

SNP testing shall be used in preference to STR wherever obtainable. Where a profile is obtained under Byelaw 8.9.1(iii), the Society shall record the testing method (SNP or STR) against that profile on the animal's permanent record — whether held on the Society's database, certificate, or both — and that profile shall not be treated as equivalent to a SNP-based profile for the purposes of any future parent-seek exercise across the wider Herd Book.

Importation of Embryos 8.10.1

A calf resulting from an imported frozen embryo is the primary subject of registration under this Byelaw. On registration, the calf shall be DNA-profiled to the Society's standard at the owner's expense, regardless of the profile standard held for its parents.

8.10.2

Parentage shall be verified by comparison of the calf's profile against DNA Profiles of the sire and dam, obtained to the standard set out in Byelaw 8.9 from a recognised testing agency or the herd book of origin. Documentary Fallback — Last Resort Only

8.10.3

Where a compliant DNA Profile for the sire and/or dam cannot be obtained, the breeder may rely on a three-generation pedigree issued by the herd book of origin, together with a certificate from an approved body in the country of origin as required under Byelaw 8.10.5, only if the breeder first certifies in writing, to the Society's satisfaction, that a compliant profile could not reasonably be obtained — for example because the animal is deceased, no sample or tissue exists, or the herd book of origin's own rules prohibit testing or release. This route is not available where a compliant profile could have been obtained but was not sought.

8.10.4

A certification under Byelaw 8.10.3 that is subsequently found to be false or made without reasonable grounds shall be treated as a false declaration under Byelaw 4.

8.10.5

Where Byelaw 8.10.3 applies, the certificate from the approved body in the country of origin shall confirm: the date of collection; the identity of the Donor Cow; the number of viable embryos or ova recovered; and the identification numbers of embryos frozen for export.

8.11

Compliance and Enforcement All Breeders and owners shall comply with these provisions and any guidance issued by the Society concerning the traceability, identification, or verification of animals born by FOT / IVF. The Society retains the authority to refuse, cancel, or amend registrations that do not satisfy these requirements.

Import and Export of Live Animals and Germplasm

9.1

General This Byelaw governs the import and export of live animals, Germplasm (including semen, FOT material, and embryos), and calves imported in utero into or from the Society's Herd Book. All such activity must comply with:

9.2

9.1.1

The Society's Breeding Programme and Byelaws;

9.1.2

Applicable UK legislation, including the Zootechnical Regulation;

9.1.3

Any legal, technical, or breed-specific requirements in force at the time of application.

9.1.4

The Society retains full discretion over the acceptance, registration, classification, or designation of any live animal, Germplasm, or derived progeny in the Herd Book.

Export 9.2.1

Live Animals Export Certificates will be issued only for live animals registered in the Society's Herd Book, upon submission of all required documentation and payment of the prescribed fee.

9.2.2

Germplasm

13 Germplasm may be exported only if collected from animals registered in the Society's Herd Book and compliant with all requirements of the Society's Breeding Programme at the time of collection. An Export Certificate may be issued subject to verification and applicable fees. 9.2.3

Breeder Responsibility It is the responsibility of the Breeder or exporter to ensure that any live animal or Germplasm intended for export complies with: (i)

The regulations of the destination country;

(ii)

The requirements of any receiving herd book; and

(iii)

The Society's own export procedures.

The Society reserves the right to refuse the issue of an Export Certificate where documentation is incomplete or where legal, health, or breed standards are not met. 9.3

Import 9.3.1

Recognised Herd Books Imported animals or Germplasm must originate from a herd book recognised by the Society. Recognition is at the sole discretion of the Society and may include consideration of: (i)

Listing as an approved breeding body under the Zootechnical Regulation;

(ii)

Operation of a formal pedigree herd book for Aberdeen-Angus cattle;

(iii)

Alignment with breed standards, breeding objectives, and technical practices compatible with those of the Society.

The Society reserves the right to reject imports from herd books it does not recognise, or to apply additional conditions to such entries. The Society's determination shall be final, having applied the criteria set out in the Zootechnical Regulations and the Society's published Breeding Programme. The Society will apply these requirements without discrimination on the basis of country of origin, provided the applicable Zootechnical and Breeding Programme standards are met. 9.3.2

Documentation Requirements All imported live animals, Germplasm, or calves imported in utero must be accompanied by documentation satisfactory to the Society, which may include: (i)

A valid Export Certificate from the originating breeding organisation;

(ii)

A DNA Profile to the Society's accepted standard;

(iii)

Verified parentage documentation;

(iv)

Genetic test results for traits and/or conditions as defined in the Breeding Programme (including, but not limited to, Myostatin);

(v)

Genetic test results for traits and/or conditions as determined from the Council from time to time;

(vi)

Collection, health, and ownership documentation for Germplasm;

(vii)

Implantation, donor, and recipient information in the case of in utero imports; And

(viii)

payment of the prescribed import fee.

The Society will not register any import where, in its sole discretion, documentation is incomplete, inconsistent, or not received in full. 9.3.3

9.3.4

Progeny at Foot and In Utero (i) Progeny at foot or suckling an imported dam must be fully and correctly registered in the herd book of their birth, and any subsequent recognised herd book, before application for entry to the UK Herd Book. (ii)

Calves imported in utero shall be treated as progeny resulting from FOT, and subject to all associated rules, documentation, and verification requirements.

(iii)

Failure to disclose prior registrations or to submit supporting documentation may result in refusal of entry to the Herd Book.

Acceptance and Designation Entry to the Herd Book of any imported live animal or Germplasm is at the absolute discretion of the Society and may be refused where:

14 (i)

Documentation is incomplete or unsatisfactory;

(ii)

The source herd book is not recognised;

(iii)

The material fails to meet breed, health, or technical standards.

Where accepted, the Society may assign a specific designation within the Herd Book to indicate the imported status of an animal or its origin (live, in utero, or Germplasm). 9.3.5

Ongoing Compliance and Reclassification The Society reserves the right to: (i)

Decline registration;

(ii)

Reclassify or assign status;

(iii)

Or withdraw registration entirely,

in the event that a live animal or Germplasm — or any animal derived therefrom — is subsequently found not to meet the legal, technical, or breed-specific requirements of the Society. This includes, but is not limited to, cases of misrepresentation, incomplete documentation, or the identification of a disqualifying genetic condition. This authority extends to any affected progeny. Any such decision affecting Herd Book status shall be subject to the Society's Review and Appeals procedures, save where immediate action is required to meet statutory or Zootechnical obligations. 9.4

Responsibility 9.4.1

It is the responsibility of the Breeder, importer, or exporter to ensure that any live animal, Germplasm, or derived progeny complies with: (i)

The laws and regulations of the country of origin and/or destination;

(ii)

The eligibility and technical standards of the originating or receiving herd book; and

(iii)

The Governing Documents.

The Society accepts no responsibility or liability for delays, refusals, reclassifications, or deregistration arising from non-compliance with these requirements.

10.

Semen Royalty Scheme

10.1

Introduction

10.2

10.3

10.4

10.1.1

Any full Member of the Society who owns a registered Aberdeen-Angus bull is entitled to charge a stud fee for any semen from his/her bull which is used in AI for pedigree breeding.

10.1.2

If membership of the Society lapses, any bulls previously entered on the scheme to that individual will be withdrawn from the scheme. Any bull can be re-entered on to the Royalty Scheme in the event of the Member's Society membership re-commencing.

Eligibility of Bulls 10.2.1

All registered Aberdeen-Angus bulls, from which semen is available, are eligible for the Royalty Scheme except for any bull which has had pedigree or commercial semen distributed prior to application for the Royalty Scheme.

10.2.2

All bulls must be DNA profiled by a society-recognised agency to the agreed standards and the resulting profile supplied to the Society prior to entry to the Royalty Scheme.

Eligibility of Semen 10.3.1

Imported semen from an Aberdeen-Angus bull registered in the country of origin and DNA profiled by a recognised agency to a standard agreed will also be eligible for entry into the scheme once the profile has been shared with the Society.

10.3.2

DNA Profile must be analysed prior to registration of a bull's first calf. This may require submission of a DNA Sample to facilitate this.

Entry Requirements An entry fee is to be paid for each bull entered in the Scheme to cover the initial costs of administration as set by the Society from time to time and published on their website. At the same time, the owner of the bull is required to agree to abide by the rules of the Scheme as stated herein and to declare the price of Semen Royalty that he will be charging for his bull.

10.5

Semen Royalties 10.5.1

10.6

An individual who is a full Member of the Society, or

(ii)

A syndicate of which at least one component member is a full Member of the Society.

Where semen is owned by a syndicate, the Society will only pay royalty to one nominated member of the syndicate. It is then up to that member to distribute royalty payments to the members of the syndicate.

10.5.3

It is not possible under this Scheme for Semen Royalties to be claimed by or paid to more than one 'bona fide owner' at the same time. This means that, if ownership of a Semen Royalty Bull is to be transferred, the AI pedigree Semen Royalty rights must either be retained in total by the vendor or transferred in total to the purchaser as at an agreed date of registration of progeny. Where these semen rights are transferred to the purchaser, this must also include the right to claim Royalties on all Semen which has been sold prior to the aforesaid transfer of the bull and resulting in births after the agreed date of transfer of rights.

10.5.4

Retained semen use. Where a Member sells a bull and retains a stated quantity of semen, the following conditions apply. If the bull is subsequently entered onto the semen royalty scheme by the purchaser, the vendor will be eligible to register pedigree cattle, by the given bull, under his prefix without having to pay the royalty fee. Subsequent progeny from females sold in calf to the royalty bull, by the original vendor, either privately or at auction, will be subject to pay the royalty fee as stated.

10.5.5

Upon initial entry to the Scheme, a bull's Semen Royalty fee may be fixed at any level chosen by the owner of the semen rights and once set may not be increased. Reductions in Semen Royalty fees may be notified to the Society and introduced at any time. The maximum royalty charge will be the rate determined by the Society Council from time to time.

10.5.6

Semen Royalties will be published by the Society in its publications and on its website. Additionally, details of the Scheme will be made known to all new Members upon joining the Society.

Registration of Semen Royalty Calves

10.6.2

10.8

(i) 10.5.2

10.6.1

10.7

Semen Royalty fees due will be collected by the Society and will thereafter be paid to the bona fide owner of a bull's pedigree AI Semen Royalty rights. In relation to this Scheme, the term 'bona fide owner' refers either to:

A Member wishing to register a pedigree calf, by paper registration method, got by AI from a Semen Royalty Bull will only be permitted to do so if the following is submitted to the Society's office: (i)

A completed Birth Registration application.

(ii)

The appropriate Semen Royalty fee

A Member wishing to register a pedigree calf, got by AI from a Semen Royalty bull, will have the appropriate Semen Royalty fee automatically invoiced to their account.

Collection of Semen Royalty Fees 10.7.1

The Society will collect the appropriate Semen Royalty fees on behalf of the 'bona fide owner' and credit their account accordingly. An administration fee, determined by the Society Council from time to time, will be applied for provision of this service.

10.7.2

Should a royalty fee not be paid, the Society reserves the right to debit the royalty owner’s account the amount remaining unpaid.

Females Sold AI'd in Calf to a Semen Royalty Bull 10.8.1

When females are sold AI'd in calf to a Semen Royalty Bull the purchaser shall be responsible for paying the appropriate Semen Royalty fee for any pedigree registration applications.

10.8.2

Females entered to a Society sale AI'd in Calf to a Semen Royalty Bull will have the details of the sire royalty noted in the sale catalogue.

11.

DNA Profiling of Bulls & Females

11.1

All Aberdeen-Angus animals used for pedigree breeding, and all animals entered for registration, inclusion in the Supplementary Register, or progression through any grading-up stage, must be genotyped and parent verified through, or in accordance with, the Society's appointed data system, and the verification record must be lodged with the Society. Registrations from sires or dams that have not been genotyped

and verified through the approved system will not be accepted. All animals registered in the Herd Book must be genotyped and sire verified and, where a genotype for the dam is held, must also be dam verified. 11.2

The Society may, at its discretion, require DNA Samples from any animal at any stage of registration, grading-up, transfer, or continued inclusion in the Herd Book or Supplementary Register. All genotyping shall be administered by the Society through its appointed data system and approved laboratories, and Members must comply with any reasonable request for samples.

11.3

Animals shall be genotyped at a density and to a standard determined by the Society from time to time, including testing for myostatin variants NT821 and F94L, any additional myostatin variants, horn-status genes, coat-colour or marking genes, and any known or emerging recessive or other genetic conditions as specified by the Society under its DNA Policy.

11.4

DNA test results may be used by the Society to determine eligibility for registration, classification within the Herd Book, continuation or progression through grading-up stages, and eligibility for eventual entry into the Main Section of the Herd Book, in accordance with the Breed Standard, the approved Breeding Programme, and these Byelaws.

11.5

Where DNA testing or other verification identifies genetic characteristics inconsistent with the Breed Standard or the genetic requirements of the approved Breeding Programme, the animal shall not be eligible to progress further within the grading-up process and may be reclassified or removed from the Supplementary Register in accordance with the Society's Herd Book governance and eligibility Byelaws.

11.6

The Society retains stewardship of all genetic data, lysate, and other Created Material arising from DNA testing undertaken under its authority or through its appointed systems. Such Created Material may be analysed or re-analysed retrospectively, including for newly identified or emerging genetic conditions, without further consent, notification, or approval from the animal owner, where such analysis is undertaken for the purposes of Herd Book integrity, breeding programme management, or breed improvement. Such retrospective analysis may be undertaken solely for the purposes of Herd Book integrity, maintenance of the approved Breeding Programme, compliance with the Zootechnical Regulations, or the identification of genetic conditions relevant to breed improvement or statutory obligations.

11.7

Ownership and use of physical samples, Created Material, testing procedures, approved laboratories, and the list of traits or genes tested are governed by the Society's DNA Policy as approved and amended from time to time by the Council.

11.8

Members and Breeders acknowledge the terms of these Byelaws and undertake to: 11.8.1 assist the Society in furthering its aims and objectives, including the identification and eradication of detrimental genetic conditions; 11.8.2

provide the Society with further samples or information without unreasonable delay (and in any event, within 14 days) following a written request from the Society; and

11.8.3

take such steps as the Society may request from time to time to facilitate the foregoing.

12.

Herd Prefix and Animal Names

12.1

Every paid-up Member desiring to register in the Herd Book or any registers supplementary thereto shall first submit a herd prefix for registration, which shall be subject to the approval of the Council of the Society. This herd prefix will be applicable to animals bred and tendered for registration by that Member, either alone or jointly with any partner(s) or other person(s).

12.2

The Society reserves the right to refuse the registration of a herd prefix which in its opinion shall be contrary to the objectives and conventions of the Society. To enable herd prefix registration, the Member shall pay a fee, as determined by the Society and currently set out on the Society’s website, before registration is effective in the Society's records.

12.3 12.4

The copyright of the Aberdeen-Angus herd prefix is the absolute property of the Society and remains the property of the Society. The Member is granted a licence to use the prefix during the period of their membership within the Society. The Society reserves the right to withdraw that licence at any time whether membership is active or not.

12.5

The licence to use the prefix shall expire from the earlier of (i) cessation of membership or (ii) dispersal of the herd carrying the prefix. The prefix cannot be transferred or inherited outside the terms defined by the Society.

12.6

12.7

Transfer of licence allowing the use of the herd prefix 12.6.1

The Society has absolute discretion to retire such lapsed herd prefixes as may be deemed of significance to the integrity of the Aberdeen-Angus breed and its heritage, mindful of the conventions and objectives of the Society.

12.6.2

A prefix that has already been used by a Member may not be used by another Member for a period of 20 years following the date of the originator prefix herd dispersal or membership cessation (whichever came first).

12.6.3

When a herd is dispersed or discontinued, its prefix shall lapse after the birth registration period (as determined by the relevant statutory authority) following the fall of the hammer or conclusion of contract.

12.6.4

Subject to the relevant Member or Breeder's compliance with clause 12.7, where a herd - whether owned solely, jointly, as partnership property, or by a limited company, limited liability partnership, trust, or other incorporated body—is taken over by any surviving owner(s), heir(s), continuing shareholder(s), member(s), trustee(s), or by any business successor to the previous owner or body (including through merger or acquisition), the Society may, at its absolute discretion, permit continued use of the herd prefix for animals bred and submitted for registration by the new owner(s). This permission will apply for as long as the Society thinks fit and is conditional upon continued membership of the Society.

12.6.5

For the avoidance of doubt, the transfer or sale of animals alone—including the whole or any part of a herd—to a third party who is not a business successor to the previous owner or owning body does not confer any right to use or continue the herd prefix, regardless of whether the animals remain on the same premises. Any such transferee must apply for a licence for a new herd prefix.

12.6.6

All changes of ownership, control, or other material details affecting the herd prefix must be notified to the Society using the relevant change-of-details form, completed and signed by all relevant parties as named on that form. Upon receipt, the Society shall amend its records as the Society thinks fit mindful of its integrity and Governing Documents. Where the Society deems that the change constitutes a material change in ownership or control, it may require the new owner(s) to apply for membership of the Society and for a licence for a new herd prefix before further registrations are accepted.

Change of Control of Member or Breeder 12.7.1 A Member or Breeder is obliged to inform the Society within 14 days of the occurrence of any of the following matters: Body Corporate (i)

in the case of a Member or Breeder that is a body corporate, any change of an ownership interest of that Member or Breeder which results in a party's ownership interest in that Member or Breeder moving above or below 25%, 50%, 75% or 100% of the overall ownership of such body corporate; Partnership

(ii)

in the case of a partnership, any:

(ii)(a)

change in the partners of such partnership; or

(ii)(b)

change to an ownership interest in the partnership which results in a partner's interest moving above or below 25%, 50%, 75% or 100% of the overall ownership of such partnership; or Trust

(iii)

in the case of a trust (save for a trust constituted on the death of a Member or Breeder which shall be covered under "Executors" below):

(iii)(a)

any change to the beneficiary/beneficiaries of such trust; or

(iii)(b)

a change to the trustees of such trust; Executors

(iv)

in the case of the death of a Member or Breeder where that Member or Breeder is a natural person:

(iv)(a)

on the death of such Member or Breeder;

(iv)(b)

on the appointment of the executors of such Member or Breeder;

(iv)(c)

on any change to such executors; or

18 (iv)(d) 12.8

on the transfer of the Member or Breeder's herd to a beneficiary of such individual's estate.

Prefix Standards A herd prefix shall: 12.8.1 Consist of no more than two words, with one being preferred 12.8.2

Not include numbers

12.8.3

Not be constituted entirely of initials

12.8.4

Have no special characters, punctuation, or symbols

12.8.5

Have no homophones or deliberate misspellings of existing prefixes or marks

12.8.6

Not use the name of any country, region, county, or well-known large settlement.

12.8.7

Not use the words "Aberdeen" or "Angus" unless specifically authorised

12.8.8

Have no similarity to well-known company/brand names

12.8.9

Not be detrimental to the Aberdeen-Angus breed, brand, membership or individual Member

12.8.10 Not be confusing, misleading or infer a trait or quality 12.8.11 Not be offensive, derogatory in nature or otherwise contrary to social decency (in the sole discretion of the Society Council) Insofar as these conditions with respect to historic herd prefix naming have not been applied, such cases shall not and may not be used as a precedent or justification for acceptance of any future herd prefix. 12.9

Animal Naming In addition to the herd prefix, each animal must have a name which shall not be altered after being imported or registered in the Herd Book or any registers supplementary thereto except under special circumstances as the Society may direct. 12.9.1

Only one licensed herd prefix may be used in the name of an animal. All animal names shall be subject to the approval by the Society.

12.9.2

The total number of characters (including spaces) in an animal's name must not exceed forty

12.9.3

Each animal shall be recorded as belonging to the same family as its dam and shall be given an individual name in accordance with the naming convention for that family. The full registered name of each animal shall comprise, in order:

12.9.4

12.9.5

(i)

The herd prefix;

(ii)

The word "Red" (if the animal is red in colour);

(iii)

The family name, beginning with one of the approved initial letters for that family as set out in the Herd Book (a full list of family naming conventions, including approved initial letters, is provided on the Society website).

(iv)

Any permitted additional word(s) in accordance with the family naming convention, such that the family name and additional word(s) together do not exceed two words.

Animal names shall: (i)

Not include numbers (save those as used in the suffix)

(ii)

Not be constituted entirely of initials

(iii)

Have no special characters, punctuation, or symbols

(iv)

Have no homophones or deliberate misspellings of existing prefixes or marks

(v)

Not use the name of any country, region, county, or well-known large settlement.

(vi)

Have no similarity to well-known company/brand names

(vii)

Not be detrimental to the Aberdeen-Angus breed, brand integrity, membership or individual Member or Breeder

(viii)

Not be confusing, misleading or infer a trait or quality

(ix)

Not be offensive, derogatory in nature or otherwise contrary to social decency (in the sole discretion of the Society Council)

A suffix consisting of: (i)

The year letter for the calving season (January 1 to December 31). Year letters shall follow the sequence set out in the Herd Book, omitting the letters I, O, and Q. For

19 example, the year 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025 shall carry the Year Letter "B", and (ii)

The last three digits of the animal's official Ear Tag Number.

12.9.6

The Society reserves the right to append such characters, or other identifiers to an animal's registered name as it considers necessary for accuracy, integrity, to meet any applicable statutory or regulatory requirement(s) and ensure compliance with the Society's Byelaws.

12.9.7

The Society reserves the right to amend an animal's registered name at any time as it considers necessary following consultation with the Member or Breeder to meet any applicable statutory or regulatory requirement(s) and ensure compliance with the Society's Byelaws.

13.

Sire, Dam and Semen Ownership

13.1

The Society may refuse to accept entries for registration in the Herd Book, from any Member who fails to observe or perform any provision of Byelaw 14. No birth registration will be sanctioned unless the dam of the calf has been formally transferred to the Breeder in the Herd Book in accordance with Byelaw 14. Where the sire and its natural calf were not in the same ownership at the time of service or insemination, the registration application must be accompanied by a Service Certificate signed by the owner of the sire at the time of service. This requirement does not apply where, on sale or transfer of a bull, semen is retained by the vendor in private storage (i.e. other than at an Approved Place) and the transfer certificate has been marked in accordance with Byelaw 14. An approved place shall be an Artificial Insemination Centre licenced for the purpose by a Ministry or a Department of Agriculture, or such other place as may be approved by the Society from time to time. Calves conceived from stored semen will only be accepted for registration if the semen was collected on behalf of the bona fide owner of the bull by a veterinary surgeon or qualified technician, and was processed and identified at an Approved Place.

13.2

Upon the transfer of the bull, either by sale or transfer, all stored semen owned by the vendor or transferor must be transferred to the new owner of the bull except where as a condition of the transaction it is agreed that such semen shall be retained by the vendor or transferor and in such case the fact that such semen is retained must be notified to the Society.1

13.3

Any semen stored by the lessee or person having temporary use of the bull must pass to the owner of the bull upon expiry of the period of loan or temporary use, unless it is agreed as part of the transaction that such semen shall be retained, when the Society must be notified.

13.4

Any such decision affecting Herd Book status shall be subject to the Society's Review and Appeals procedures (as set out in these Byelaws), save where immediate action is required to meet statutory or Zootechnical obligations.

14.

Transfers and De-Registrations

14.1

Notification and Method of Transfer 14.1.1

14.1.2

Any Member or Breeder acquiring ownership of registered cattle for pedigree purposes must notify the Society to enable the transfer of ownership to be recorded in the Society's Herd Book or any registers supplementary thereto. Ownership transfers must be submitted using one of the following methods: (i)

Paper transfer: The purchaser (transferee) must provide the original pedigree certificate with the reverse side fully completed. This must include the names and signatures of both vendor (transferor) and purchaser (transferee), and the date of transfer. The Society will not process paper transfers without the original certificate and the required information.

(ii)

Digital transfer: Where a digital process is made available by the Society, the transfer must be completed using the authorised system and verified by both the vendor (transferor) and purchaser (transferee) through the prescribed method.

Note: For the purposes of this Byelaw the transfer of a bull shall mean a bona fide change of ownership and shall not apply to a loan or other temporary use when all stored semen shall remain the property of the owner of the bull, unless it is agreed as a part of the transaction that such semen shall pass to the lessee or person having temporary use of the bull). Any semen retained when a bull is entered into an Official Sale or dispersal sale must be notified in the official catalogue of the Sale.

14.2

14.1.3

A fee, as published on the Society's website or other official materials, is payable by the purchaser (transferee) for each animal transferred, unless exempted under clause 14.1.4.

14.1.4

The following categories of transfer are exempt from the standard transfer fee:

14.2.2

14.2.3

14.4

14.5

Animals sold at official Society sales.

(ii)

Fully registered calves sold at foot and not exceeding six months of age at the time of the transfer request.

Society Discretion and Transfer Conditions 14.2.1

14.3

(i)

The Society may, at its discretion, accept alternative evidence of ownership transfer where the standard process cannot be completed, provided such evidence satisfies the Society that the purchaser is the bona fide owner. The Society reserves the right to refuse to recognise or record any transfer, particularly where: (i)

A party to the transfer is subject to ongoing or past disciplinary action or sanction under the Society's Governing Documents;

(ii)

The transfer, if processed, would cause or contribute to a breach of any Byelaw, policy, or Herd Book requirement;

(iii)

Documentation is incomplete, inaccurate, or otherwise unsatisfactory; or

(iv)

The Society (acting reasonably) is not satisfied for any reason with the evidence of ownership of the animal being transferred.

The Society may refuse to register the progeny of any animal subject to a disputed or noncompliant transfer.

Suspended or Expelled Members In the event that a Member is suspended or expelled in accordance with the Society's Articles of Association or Byelaws, the Society may, at its discretion: 14.3.1

Permit the transfer of animals registered in that person's name at the date of suspension or expulsion; and/or

14.3.2

Permit the registration and transfer of progeny born after the date of suspension or expulsion. In each case to compliance with these and any other applicable provisions issued by the Society.

Herd Book Eligibility and Regulatory Compliance 14.4.1

The Society will only record transfers of animals that are fully registered in the Society's Herd Book or in any supplementary registers maintained by the Society in accordance with its Governing Documents.

14.4.2

Where an animal originates from another Herd Book recognised by, or operating under the authority of, a competent authority for the purposes of applicable zootechnical legislation, the Society may require such additional documentation, evidence, or assurances of equivalence as it considers necessary before accepting or recording the transfer of ownership.

14.4.3

Where applicable, the Society shall require compliance with all relevant legislation governing zootechnical status and Herd Book recognition, including (without limitation) the Zootechnical Regulation, as amended, replaced, or supplemented from time to time.

14.4.4

The Society reserves the right to require proof of Breeder recognition or other documentation necessary to satisfy pedigree integrity, Herd Book rules, or statutory obligations before processing a transfer.

14.4.5

The Society's determination as to whether a Herd Book is recognised or equivalent for the purposes of recording a transfer shall be final.

Clarification of the Society's Role 14.5.1

Recording of a transfer of ownership by the Society constitutes administrative recognition for pedigree purposes only. It does not confer or determine legal title to the animal, which remains a matter of private contract between the parties.

14.5.2

The Effective Date of Transfer, for the purposes of the Society's records, shall be the date provided by the parties and accepted by the Society, subject to receipt of complete and satisfactory documentation and payment where applicable.

15.

Sales

15.1

Purpose and Scope 15.1.1 15.1.2

This Byelaw shall govern all Sales held under the auspices of or supported by the Society. Reference to Sale(s) within this Byelaw shall be deemed to be any of the following. (i)

An Official Sale is a sale held under the auspices of the Society and shall be governed by the relevant sections contained within this Byelaw.

(ii)

An Authorised Sale is a sale authorised by the Society and shall be governed by the relevant sections contained within this Byelaw.

(iii)

A Supported Sale is a sale where the Society is contracted to provide defined services and support to (i) a Member or (ii) a Member nominated to act as agent for a consortium of Members carrying out a sale.

15.1.3

Only current full Members of the Society (not including those undergoing a review process under Byelaws 19 to 27 (inclusive)) may enter Aberdeen-Angus cattle for the Sales as described under these Byelaws.

15.1.4

All Members entering and carrying out a Sale shall undertake to read, understand and abide by the relevant sale conditions as pertaining to Official, Authorised and Supported Sales.

15.1.5

All Sales conducted under this Byelaw are commercial livestock transactions between parties acting in the course of a business. By entering or purchasing at a Sale, all participants acknowledge and agree that they do so as traders, and that the transaction is a business-tobusiness contract for the purposes of the Sale of Goods Act 1979. Accordingly, the consumer protection provisions of the Consumer Rights Act 2015 do not apply to such transactions. Nothing in this clause restricts liability where such restriction is prohibited by law.

15.1.6

Animals entered for all sales shall be: (i)

registered or birth-notified in accordance with these Byelaws.

(ii)

correctly identified in accordance with UK legislation and Society’s Governing Documents.

(iii)

bona fide property of the Vendor (“Vendor”) at the time of sale and Vendors agree to indemnify the Society and any Auctioneer appointed by the Society (“Auctioneer”) against any loss arising from defects in title.

(iv)

correctly and fairly described.

(v)

subject to fees and levies as detailed on the Society website based on the agreed nature of the sale

In addition to the above the Society shall obligate the Members to further adhere to the following: 15.1.7

15.1.8

15.1.9

Animals entered for Official Sales shall: (i) Be DNA verified to the standard as noted in the Society DNA Policy unless sold at foot (not an A-Lot). Calves sold at foot shall require to be intimated and will be subject to an identity check only. (ii)

Be performance recorded as determined by the Council from time to time

(iii)

Meet the Society health requirements and Matrix as defined in Appendix 5 (the “Health Matrix”).

Animals entered for Authorised Sales shall: (i) Be DNA verified to the standard as noted in the Society DNA Policy unless sold at foot (not an A-Lot). Calves sold at foot shall require to be intimated and will be subject to an identity check only. (ii)

Be performance recorded as determined by the Council from time to time

(iii)

Not be obligated to meet the requirements of the Health Matrix provided the Member and nominated member ensures the health status of the sale is correctly and fairly described.

Animals entered for Supported Sales shall: (i) Be DNA verified to the standard as noted in the Society DNA policy unless sold at foot (not an A-Lot). Calves sold at foot shall require to be intimated and will be subject to an identity check only. (ii)

Not be obligated to performance record

22 (iii)

Not be obligated to meet the requirements of the Health Matrix provided the Member and nominated member ensures the health status of the sale is correctly and fairly described.

15.1.10 The means by which a Sale is conducted e.g. public auction, private tender, online, hybrid and the venue of sale etc. shall be required to be stated in advance in order for a Sale to be under the auspices of the Society. 15.1.11 All Society Sale endorsements shall immediately be null and void in the event of any revisions to the agreed upon conditions without the consent of the Society. 15.1.12 By entering an Official Sale or Authorised sale conducted under this Byelaw, Vendors and Purchasers accept that the National Beef Association (NBA) Breeding Warranties apply. Supported Sales may choose to avail themselves of said Warranties and the Society shall have no responsibility or liability in respect of such terms of Sale. 15.2

Vendors are required to gain agreement with the Society as to the primary sale descriptor to be applied. All Sales shall be described as either: 15.2.1

Collective or

15.2.2

Production or

15.2.3 Dispersal The Society shall not recognise any other primary sale descriptor 15.3

Vendors may subtitle the said primary sale with secondary sale descriptors of their choosing, mindful of the requirement to be correct and fair in the sale description as noted elsewhere in these byelaws.

15.4

The Society does not warrant and is not responsible for the accuracy and veracity of the said sale descriptors and relies solely on information supplied by the Vendor or member nominated to act as the agent. Information provided by the Society

15.5

Where the Society provides any information or descriptions of cattle for the purposes of any Sale, the Society does not give any warranty or representation, whether directly or indirectly, in relation to the accuracy of the information or descriptions provided, and shall have no liability whatsoever to any party in relation to the provision of this information, and no party shall have any action, claim, right, demand or setoff, whether in this jurisdiction or any other, whether in law or in equity against the Society in relation to the provision of this information.

15.6

Vendors are responsible for their sale animals and their welfare until the fall of the hammer Animals must be handled by appropriate and competent handlers and not pose a safety risk to Members or the general public.

15.7

Role of the Auctioneers 15.7.1

Only Auctioneers formally appointed by the Society may conduct Official and Authorised Sales.

15.7.2

Appointed Auctioneers shall be issued with Society terms and conditions governing their appointment and shall be required to adhere to them insofar as they are able to do so

15.7.3

15.8

Appointed Auctioneers: (i)

Shall sell as agent for the Vendor.

(ii)

Decision in the conduct of the bidding is final.

(iii)

Must conduct sales transparently and fairly.

(iv)

Undertake to comply with the spirit of this Byelaw and relevant Appendices hereto.

Entry and Catalogue Requirements 15.8.1

Information submitted by the vendor regarding the sale of animals and such information as pertains to the vendor relevant to the said sale shall be accurate and not misleading.

15.8.2

Entries must be submitted on the approved form (or online system where available) and received by the stated closing date. Late entries will not be accepted.

15.8.3

Vendors are responsible for all catalogue information, including: (i)

Pedigree and Performance information

(ii)

Health status

(iii)

Genetic test results (including known defects)

(iv)

Sale notes accompanying lots

15.8.4

15.8.5

15.8.6

Breeding, service, FOT and flushing declarations including the retention of any semen or embryos Declaring any female that: (i)

has been flushed,

(ii)

used in FOT, or

(iii)

has retained embryos, the number and their genetic makeup

Where a female is sold in-calf: (i)

the service sire must be DNA-verified, and

(ii)

service details must be stated clearly

(iii)

to a royalty bull, the catalogue must state who pays the registration royalty. If not stated, the Vendor shall pay and the Society shall recover the royalty from their membership account

FOT Recipients presented for sale must declare: (i)

"Carrying a transferred embryo" in the catalogue

(ii)

The potential sire(s) and dam of the embryo

(iii)

Number of embryos collected in the same flush group

15.8.7

If semen has been collected from a bull being offered for sale, the Vendor must declare whether semen passes with the bull or is retained, and whether retained semen may be sold or gifted.

15.8.8

Once the catalogue is printed, no substitution entries are permitted.

15.8.9

All bulls over 12 months of age entered for public auction must be fitted with a Nose Ring.

15.8.10 The Society shall determine the information displayed on the official animal sale card at Official Sales. 15.9

Sale Charges and Fees 15.9.1 The Society shall levy a charge (the "Sale Levy") in respect of every Sale conducted under this Byelaw. The Sale Levy may be expressed as a percentage of gross proceeds of the Sale, as a fixed sum per animal or per entry, or as a combination, and may differ between categories of Sale. The rate and basis applicable to each category shall be determined by Council from time to time and published on the Society’s website. 15.9.2

The Sale Levy is payable by the Vendor. It shall be collected by the Auctioneer on behalf of the Society and deducted from the Vendor’s account at the point of sale, save where no Auctioneer is appointed or the Society otherwise determines, in which case it shall be collected by the Society directly.

15.9.3

Failure by the Auctioneer to collect the Sale Levy does not discharge the Vendor’s liability to pay it, and the Society may recover any uncollected Sale Levy from the Vendor.

15.9.4

The Sale Levy is payable in respect of any animal sold privately at the sale premises under Byelaw 15.15.9 as if it had been sold through the ring.

15.9.5

All Sale Levies are exclusive of VAT, which shall be added where applicable.

15.10

Inspection and Eligibility 15.10.1 Inspectors and Sale Veterinarians act for the Society. The decisions of Society Representatives are final and binding.

15.11

All animals at Official Sales are subject to: (i)

identity checks,

(ii)

veterinary inspection, and

(iii)

breed/standard inspection

15.11.2 Animals entered for Authorised and Supported Sales may be subject to: (i)

identity checks,

(ii)

veterinary inspection, and

(iii)

breed/standard inspection

15.11.3 Animals upon inspection may be rejected from a Sale for: (i)

incorrect identity,

(ii)

incomplete or no genetic testing

(iii)

not being fit to be independently sold,

(iv)

genetic or phenotypic defects detrimental to the breed,

(v)

conditions prejudicial to the animal's welfare

(vi)

temperament,

(vii)

active warts or ringworm,

(viii)

reproductive abnormalities,

(ix)

failure to meet health requirements or incomplete health declarations

(N.B the above list is not exhaustive) 15.11.4 Upon rejection, the Member or Member's Representative shall be required to immediately withdraw the said rejected animal from the sale. 15.11.5 It is the right of the appointed Society Representative or Auctioneer to decline to sell animals that they deem not fit, safe or appropriate to be sold by public auction at the Official Sale. Such animal shall be deemed to have been rejected under the terms of these Byelaws. 15.11.6 The Society shall be obliged to adhere to any direction from statutory officials with respect to any entries within an Official or Authorised Sale. Any and all costs associated with such instruction or direction by statutory officials shall lie solely and wholly with the vendor. 15.11.7 Rejected animals: (i)

Are spray-marked,

(ii)

Are not eligible for sale at such Official and Authorised sales.

(iii)

Must either be removed from the premises or remain in a pen assigned by the Society for the duration of the sale.

(iv)

Vendors of such animals shall ensure the integrity of the breed and the official sale is not compromised or subverted.

If a cow is rejected, a Calf at Foot may only be sold if catalogued as an A-Lot and passed independently 15.11.8 Vendors must present animals at the stated inspection time. Failure to do so results in automatic rejection unless exceptional circumstances are accepted by the Society. 15.11.9 Where a Sale governed by this Byelaw is conducted without an official Society inspection, the Society may require the Vendor, at the Vendor's cost, to provide a veterinary attestation in respect of each animal, from a registered veterinary surgeon. 15.11.10 Any veterinary attestation required under clause 15.11.9 shall be in such form as the Society may from time to time prescribe and, as a minimum, confirm: (i)

the animal's official identification and ear tag(s);

(ii)

in the case of bulls, the presence of two normally descended testicles;

(iii)

the absence of obvious jaw deformities, including overshot or undershot jaw;

(iv)

that, at the time of examination, the animal was fit to be presented for sale and fit for purpose.

15.11.11 Any veterinary attestation provided under this Byelaw: (i)

is provided by the registered veterinary surgeon acting on behalf of the Vendor;

(ii)

does not constitute a warranty, certification or inspection by the Society; and

(iii)

does not limit the Society's right to reject an animal where information is incomplete, inconsistent in the Society’s discretion, or prejudicial to the interests of the breed.

15.11.12 Failure to provide a veterinary attestation required under this Byelaw within the timeframe specified by the Society may deem the animal ineligible for the Sale entered. 15.11.13 Where a Sale governed by this Byelaw is conducted without an official Society inspection, the Society and/or the Auctioneer may include purchaser-facing notices, explanations or disclaimers in the Sale catalogue, online sale terms and conditions, or other Sale materials explaining the nature, scope and limitations of any veterinary attestations, inspections or assessments. (i)

Any such notice, explanation or disclaimer, where incorporated into the terms and conditions of the Sale, shall form part of the contract of Sale and shall be binding on Purchasers.

15.12

Genetic Testing 15.12.1 All animals over 12 months of age entered for Official or Authorised Society Sales must be genomically profiled by a recognised laboratory as detailed in the DNA Policy, with results received by the Society before inspection at the Society Sale. 15.12.2 Such profiles shall be tested to include: (i)

Sire verification

(ii)

Myostatin status

(iii) Further tests at the discretion of the Society. Animals under 12 months of age unless being stated as DNA parent verified shall not be sold as an "A-Lot" unless announced from the rostrum that the said "A-Lot" is sold without the benefit of DNA parent verification 15.12.3 Where results are pending, the Vendor may submit a disclaimer but remains fully responsible for consequences of incorrect parentage. 15.12.4 The Society may require additional genetic testing at any time and where necessary to protect breed integrity. 15.13

Performance All entries of Official Sales shall be performance recorded to the standard as defined by the Society from time to time in the Performance Recording Policy.

15.14

Sale Show & Parade Requirements for Sales under the auspices of or supported by the Society Where a pre-sale show or parade exists: 15.14.1 All animals forward must be halter led. 15.14.2 Animals up to 24 months must be presented in the applicable show classes 15.14.3 Animals older than 24 months must parade only. 15.14.4 Animals belonging to the sale judge must parade only. 15.14.5 Failure to exhibit at a pre-sale show without reasonable excuse may result in exclusion from the sale and/or referral to the Review Committee

15.15

Conduct of the Sale 15.15.1 All animals put forward for sale must pass through the sale ring unless rejected. 15.15.2 No rosettes or sashes won at other shows or tests to be affixed to sale entry animals at any time during the Official or Authorised sale and any associated show. 15.15.3 Vendors or their authorised representatives must be present at the point of sale. 15.15.4 Reserve prices must be notified to the Auctioneer before the auction of the lot. 15.15.5 Prize money will be forfeit on any prize-winning sale lot that is not sold in the Official or Authorised Sale. 15.15.6 Animals are sold in catalogue order unless the stewards authorise a change. 15.15.7 All animals are sold in guineas unless: (i) expressly agreed by the Society; or (ii)

for the Supported Sales, where agreed by the Auctioneer and the parties thereto,

15.15.8 The Auctioneers and Society reserve the right to each charge against the vendor one percent of the Upset Price on all animals put through the sale ring and withdrawn unsold 15.15.9 Private sales occurring on the premises before and/or after the auction are subject to full commission and must pass through the Auctioneer's book. Such animals are still deemed to fall under the National Beef Association Breeding Warranty. 15.16

Disputes 15.16.1 The Auctioneer is the Judge of the Sale. All disputes and differences of any kind which may arise at and in relation to the Auction, either between Vendors and bidders or among the bidders themselves, shall be referred to them and their decision shall be final and binding on all parties. 15.16.2 Wherein the opinion of the Society the determination of the Auctioneer is prejudicial to the integrity and reputation of the Society, the Society reserves the right to take separate or additional action(s) to which Members of the Society shall be bound by.

15.16.3 Any dispute arising at an Official or Authorised Sale that is not otherwise provided for in these Byelaws shall be referred to arbitration in accordance with the following: (i) where the Society is a party to such dispute, a request by the Society to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors to appoint an independent arbiter; or (ii)

where the Society is not a party to such dispute,

(ii)(a)

to a sub-committee of the Society Council who shall act as arbiter; or

(ii)(b)

a request by the Society to such independent body or organisation as the Society may deem appropriate to act as arbiter for the dispute, in either case, as the Society Council may determine is appropriate.

15.16.4 The independent arbiter's decision is final and binding on all parties. Arbitration will be conducted under the Arbitration Act in force in the country where the sale takes place. 15.17

Indemnity and Liability 15.17.1 To the maximum extent permitted by law:

15.18

(i)

The Society and its appointed Auctioneers accept no liability for any misdescription or omission in catalogue information. This remains solely the Vendor's responsibility.

(ii)

The Society and Auctioneers are not liable for injury, loss, damage or expense suffered by any person or animal at or in connection with the sale, except where liability cannot lawfully be excluded

Electronic and Online Sales 15.18.1 This Byelaw applies equally to: (i)

online auctions,

(ii)

timed auctions,

(iii)

hybrid auctions.

15.18.2 The Auctioneer must operate a secure system for: (i)

digital bidding,

(ii)

bidder verification,

(iii)

electronic acceptance/signature

15.18.3 A valid electronic bid carries the same legal effect as a bid made in person. 15.19

Private Treaty Sales 15.19.1 Private treaty sales of Aberdeen-Angus cattle conducted outside Official, Authorised or Supported Sales are not conducted under the auspices of the Society, and the Society plays no role in the organisation, inspection, promotion or conduct of such sales. The Society provides no guarantee as to the registration of such transfer. 15.19.2 Notwithstanding Byelaw 15.19.1, Members engaging in private treaty sales remain bound by: (i)

the Society's Byelaws;

(ii)

the obligation to act honestly and with integrity;

(iii)

the requirement that animals are correctly and fairly described; and

(iv)

all applicable statutory obligations.

15.19.3 The Society gives no warranty, endorsement or approval in respect of any private treaty sale, save for validated registration certificate where such exists. 15.19.4 Where, in the reasonable opinion of the Society, the conduct of a Member in connection with a private treaty sale is prejudicial to the reputation or integrity of the breed or the Society, such conduct may be addressed under the Society's Byelaws. 15.20

Appendices Appendix 5 (Health Requirements) shall be read as forming part of this Byelaw:

16.

Shows

16.1

Purpose and Scope 16.1.1

This Byelaw shall govern all Shows held under the auspices of or supported by the Society (i)

Reference to Show(s) within this Byelaw shall be deemed to be any of the following.

(i)(b)

A Supported Show is a show where the Society is contracted to provide defined services and support show organisers or a group of Members carrying out a Show.

For the purposes of this Byelaw, any show attached to a Sale shall be governed by the Sales Byelaws.

16.1.3

For the purposes of this Byelaw and for the avoidance of doubt Official Shows shall be governed by both the Society and the Show Organisers including Byelaws, schedules and conditions of entry. In the event of a dispute between the Society and Show Organiser as to the application or interpretation of the said Byelaws, schedules and conditions of entry, the Society shall be the final arbiter in respect of dealings with the exhibiting Member.

16.1.4

For the purposes of this Byelaw and for the avoidance of doubt Supported Shows shall be governed by Show Organisers, their Byelaws, schedules and conditions of entry and as such the Society shall not be held responsible for or regulate the said Byelaws, schedules and conditions of entry.

16.1.5

Only current full Members of the Society (not including those undergoing a review process under Byelaws 19 to 27 (inclusive)) may enter Aberdeen-Angus cattle for Official Shows as described under these Byelaws. Animals entered for all Shows shall be: (i)

registered or birth-notified in accordance with the Society's Herd Book Byelaws.

(ii)

correctly identified in accordance with UK legislation and the Society’s Governing Documents.

(iii)

correctly and fairly described.

16.1.7

All Society Show endorsements shall immediately be null and void in the event of any revisions to the agreed upon conditions without the consent of the Society.

16.1.8

The Society does not warrant and is not responsible for the accuracy and veracity of the said Show descriptors and relies solely on information supplied by the Show organisers.

16.1.9

Only Organisers formally appointed by the Society may conduct an Official Show.

Entry and Catalogue Requirements 16.2.1

Information submitted by the Exhibitor regarding the Show of animals and such information as pertains to the Exhibitor relevant to the said Show shall be accurate and not misleading.

16.2.2

Entries must be submitted on the approved form (or online system where available) and received by the stated closing date. Late entries will not be accepted.

16.2.3

Exhibitors are responsible for all catalogue information, including:

16.2.4

(i)

Pedigree and Performance information

(ii)

Health status

Where a registered Aberdeen-Angus female is exhibited with Calf at Foot: (i)

The calf must be by a registered Aberdeen-Angus sire and dam and be a minimum of intimated on the Society database;

(ii)

The calf must have been born to and fully reared by the said female; and

(iii)

Exhibitors shall be mindful of calf welfare at all times and to heed direction in respect of cow and calf from either Show Organisers or Society Representatives

16.2.5

All bulls over 12 months of age entered for a Show must be fitted with a Nose Ring.

16.2.6

The Society shall determine the information displayed on the animal's show card at Official Shows. Show cards, when made available by the Society, shall be displayed at all times

16.2.7 16.3

An Official Show is Show a held under the auspices of the Society and shall be governed by the relevant sections contained within this Byelaw.

16.1.2

16.1.6

16.2

(i)(a)

Eligibility 16.3.1

16.3.2

Animals entered for Official and Supported Shows may at any time be subject to: (i)

identity checks,

(ii)

veterinary inspection, and

(iii)

breed/standard inspection

The Society may reject animals from an Official Show upon inspection for:

(i)

incorrect identity,

(ii)

genetic or phenotypic defects detrimental to the breed,

(iii)

conditions prejudicial to the animal's welfare

(iv)

temperament,

(v)

failure to meet health requirements or incomplete health declarations. NB. The above list is not exhaustive.

16.3.3

Upon rejection, the Member or Member's Representative shall be required to immediately withdraw the said rejected animal from the Show.

16.3.4

It is the right of the appointed Society or Show Organiser representative to decline to allow exhibition of animals that they deem not fit or safe to be exhibited at a Show. Such animal shall be deemed to have been rejected under the terms of these Byelaws.

16.3.5

The Society shall be obliged to adhere to any direction from statutory officials with respect to any entries within a Show. Any and all costs associated with such instruction or direction by statutory officials shall lie solely and wholly with the Exhibitor.

16.3.6

Rejected animals: (i) Exhibitors of such animals shall ensure the Show is not compromised or subverted. (ii)

16.4

16.5

Exhibitors must present animals at the direction of the stewards

Where a Show or parade exists: 16.4.1

All animals forward must be halter led.

16.4.2

Animals must be presented in the applicable classes

Conduct of the Show 16.5.1

Exhibitors are responsible for their Show animals and their welfare until the fall of the hammer.

16.5.2

Animals must be handled by appropriate and competent handlers and not pose a safety risk to Members or the general public.

16.5.3

No rosettes or sashes won at other shows or tests to be affixed to Show entry animals at any time during the Show.

16.5.4

Prize money may be forfeited on any prize-winning Show animal that is not put forward for: (i) Interbreed competitions (ii)

Special prizes

(iii)

Grand parade

Unless otherwise agreed with a Society Representative who shall at their discretion seek the advice of the Society's appointed vet. The said representative (s) decision shall be final. 16.5.5 16.6

16.7

Disputes 16.6.1

All disputes and differences of any kind which may arise at and in relation to the Show shall be referred to the Appropriate Steward or other representative appointed by the Show organisers.

16.6.2

Wherein the opinion of the Society the determination of the steward or other appointed party of the Show Organiser is prejudicial to the integrity and reputation of the Society, the Society reserves the right to take separate or additional action(s) to which Members of the Society shall be bound by.

Indemnity and Liability 16.7.1

16.8

Animals are exhibited in catalogue order unless the stewards authorise a change.

To the maximum extent permitted by law: (i)

The Society accepts no liability for any misdescription or omission in catalogue information. This remains solely the Exhibitor's responsibility; and

(ii)

The Society are not liable for injury, loss, damage or expense suffered by any person or animal at or in connection with the Show, except where liability cannot lawfully be excluded.

Electronic and Online Shows This Byelaw, where appropriate and when pertinent, applies equally to: 16.8.1 online shows; and 16.8.2

photographic competitions.

17.

Herd Inspections

17.1

Herd Inspections The Society may carry out complete or partial herd Data Review and/or inspections, including the taking of hair root follicles, taking blood, semen, tissue or other samples for testing, weighing and measuring any animals for the purposes of checking Herd Book records, and inspecting official cattle movement and medicine records at its absolute discretion. Following notification of an inspection for the purposes of a Data Review and/or an inspection, Breeders cannot take action to ameliorate their position should such actions lead to covering up of an infraction. 17.1.1

200th Calf Review and Inspection Criteria Every 200th calf born from 1st November 2026 and registered or intimated in the herd book will be subject to a data review and shall be measured against parameters set by the Society from time to time. Such calves that lie out with these parameters may be subject to an on farm and in person calf inspection. Inspections will be conducted by agents appointed by the Society and administered alongside the Society's wider inspection processes.

17.1.2

Review of outlying and abnormal data (i) Outlying and abnormal data arising from animals intimated or registered in the Herd Book may be subject to further data review as measured against pre-agreed parameters. Such animals that lie out with these parameters may be subject to an on farm and in person inspection. Inspections will be conducted by agents appointed by the Society and administered alongside the Society's wider inspection processes. (ii)

17.2

The Society reserves the right to consider outlying and abnormal data from any legitimate source as is made available to them and obtained in line with Society policies.

Entry to Breeder's holdings for the purposes of verifying records held by the Society: 17.2.1

The Society reserves the right to enter farms under the following conditions: (i)

The Breeder shall notify the Society of all the Breeder's holdings including where registered Aberdeen-Angus cattle are held on third party holdings.

(ii)

The Society will propose a visit date to the Breeder for the Society to enter the Breeder's holding(s). As soon as any Society inspector becomes aware of their proposed or actual appointment to a Society inspection or where they subsequently become aware of any circumstances that gives rise or could reasonably be foreseen to give rise to any direct or material indirect interest in the Breeder or holding(s) to be inspected, on such date the inspector shall declare the nature of their interests to the Chief Executive Officer, and where a conflict is declared or identified (as determined by the Chief Executive Officer) an alternative inspector shall be appointed.

(iii)

(iv)

Where advance notice of an inspection has been given, any objection by the Member or Breeder to the appointed inspector must be submitted in writing to the Chief Executive Officer no later than three working days prior to the date of the scheduled inspection, setting out the Breeder's specific objections to the inspector(s) appointed by the Society. Such objection shall be determined promptly by a quorum of the Executive Committee (excluding, for the avoidance of doubt any conflicted members). Where an objection is upheld an alternative inspector shall be appointed to carry out the inspection on the original scheduled date; where it is not upheld the inspection shall proceed as scheduled. The scheduled inspection date may not be varied as a consequence of any objection to an inspector.

(v)

Where an unannounced inspection is conducted, the inspector shall confirm to the Member or Breeder at the commencement of the inspection whether any direct or material indirect conflict exists. Any objection by the Member or Breeder to the inspector shall be noted in writing at that point and referred promptly to a quorum of the Executive Committee for determination. The inspection shall proceed notwithstanding any such objection, but where an objection is subsequently upheld the findings of that inspection shall not be used in any Review process without the approval of the Executive Committee.

(vi)

Entry to a Breeder’s holding shall be unconditional. No waivers, confidentiality agreements, conditions, barriers, or delays shall be imposed by the Breeder. The

(vii)

Breeder shall have no discretion over inspectors appointed by the Society, and the refusal by or on behalf of a Breeder to permit any appointed inspector to enter a Breeder’s holding (as distinct from an objection to an inspector where advance notice of an inspection has been given, as to which Byelaw 17.2.1(iv) shall apply) shall be deemed refusal of the inspection as a whole. Where prior to an inspection the Chief Executive Officer has determined in writing that disclosure would risk prejudicing the integrity of an investigation or Herd Book records, the purpose of an inspection need not be declared to the Member or Breeder prior to or during the inspection. Save where a further written determination by the Chief Executive Officer confirms that ongoing non-disclosure remains necessary, the purpose of the inspection shall be disclosed to the Member or Breeder in writing within 14 days following the inspection. Where the matter is subsequently referred to the Review Committee, the purpose of the inspection shall be disclosed to the Member or Breeder at that point in any event.

(viii)

Where a maximum of three reasonable visit dates within a 21-day period have been given by the Society and not agreed by the Breeder or the Breeder is not present for an agreed appointment, entry to the Breeder's holding(s) will be deemed to have been refused.

(ix)

In exceptional cases, unannounced visits are at the discretion of the Society and can be made where this is deemed appropriate.

(x)

The purpose of the visit need not be declared to the Breeder prior to, during or after the inspection where this is reasonably necessary to protect the integrity of an investigation or Herd Book records.

(xi)

The Breeder shall cooperate in the preparation of a pre-inspection risk assessment and confirm outcomes of the same prior to inspection.

17.2.2

Presenting herd information: Herd records will be required by inspectors and must be provided three business days in advance of an announced inspection or within 48 hours following an unannounced visit. These would typically include (but are not confined to): Society census information, cattle passports, health declarations, veterinary records, AI/ET records, calving records, service records, medicine book and statutory body herd listings and movement records.

17.2.3

Presenting cattle: (i)

Unless otherwise advised by the Breeder, the Society shall inspect the cattle on the holding prescribed within the statutory records previously supplied.

(ii)

All cattle required for inspection must be made available at the time of inspection. Failure to make all cattle available is deemed to be a breach of the Society's inspection byelaws.

(iii)

Suitable personnel must be made available to handle cattle (where advance notice of a visit has been given).

(iv)

Cattle must be handled safely at the time of inspection, with personnel demonstrating good handling practice.

(v)

Breeder's regular weighing facilities should be made available (where advance notice of a visit has been given).

(vi)

Where cattle are held on more than one holding, the Breeder will notify the Society upon confirmation of the appointment (where advance notice of the appointment has been given). The Society reserves the right to inspect the cattle on said other holdings on the day of the inspection or any other day.

(vii)

The Society reserves the right to fully inspect un-registered calves born to registered sires and/or dams in a similar manner to the inspection of registered animals.

17.3

The Chief Executive Officer or, whom failing, the President of the Society shall have sole discretion in the appointment of individuals or bodies to act as Society inspectors. The Society inspectors appointed pursuant to this Byelaw shall be selected from a list of approved inspectors published by the Society from time to time.

17.4

When presenting cattle for herd inspections, all Breeders must provide suitable facilities to enable the Society Representatives to safely undertake the inspection.

17.5

Inspection Outcome The Society will refer the outcome of all inspections to the Review Committee for its consideration under Byelaw 18. REVIEW AND COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE

18.

The role of the Review Committee

18.1

The Review Committee shall at all times have regard to the Society's Governing Documents and shall conduct its duties with regard to and be bound by the Governing Documents.

18.2

The role of the Review Committee is to consider cases referred to it, report its findings to the Council and make a recommendation as to outcome and any proposed measures or sanctions (pursuant to Byelaw 19.3) and/or determine the case pursuant to Byelaw 21. Any outcome recommended or applied by the Review Committee may include any or a combination of the powers referred to in Byelaw 19.3 or any other recommendation it deems appropriate.

18.3

The Review Committee will be appointed for a two-year term and shall comprise of personnel as follows: three Society Members (who are not Council Members), a Chairman (appointed from within and by the Society Council) and three further Council Members. Members of the Review Committee are obligated to record any perceived or actual Conflicts of Interest, and such declarations will be subject to review and determination by Chair of Governance.

18.4

A quorum for any meeting of the Review Committee shall be 5 members. Recommendations made and decisions made by the Review Committee shall be reached by simple majority. Where recommendations are made to the Council pursuant to Byelaw 19.3, the reasons for the recommendations will be provided to the Council, together with the details of any dissenting views. Review Committee members will withdraw from the review of cases where they have or could have a direct or a material indirect interest that conflicts, or possibly may conflict, with the interests of the Member or Breeder subject to the review. Where a conflict is declared or identified, the committee member shall withdraw from that case and the Executive Committee shall appoint a replacement, ensuring that no replacement member has a direct or material indirect interest in the case. The Member or Breeder subject to review shall be notified of the composition of the Review Committee and may raise any objection to a member's appointment in writing within three working days of such notification (the “Objection Period”), setting out specific grounds. Such objection shall be determined promptly by a quorum of the Executive Committee excluding any conflicted members and recorded in writing. Where the Executive Committee determines that a conflict exists in the composition of the Review Committee it shall notify the Review Committee and relevant Member or Breeder as to its findings and the Review Committee shall take reasonable steps to reconstitute the Review Committee accordingly.

18.5

18.6

The Review Committee shall not convene to consider the case until the Objection Period has elapsed and any objection has been determined.

18.7

Administrative and technical support to the committee will be provided by Society staff as appropriate.

19.

Jurisdiction of the Review Committee

19.1

The Review Committee shall have jurisdiction to investigate and make recommendations pursuant to Byelaw 20.1, on the matters brought to its attention through any of the following routes: 19.1.1

Animals triggering any routine herd book data thresholds or checks. These thresholds and checks are pre-determined by the Council and are subject to change from time to time at the Council’s discretion;

19.1.2

Herd Book, performance or other data irregularities as identified by Society staff or appointed representatives, including but not limited to herd and sale inspectors;

19.1.3

Subject to Byelaw 19.3, a request, complaint and/or notification received by the Executive Committee or a Council member from any person about any other Member, Breeder, herd or animal; Subject to Byelaw 19.4, an anonymous disclosure to the Executive Committee or a Council Member from current or former employee, herdsperson, or contractor of a Member or Breeder; and

19.1.4

19.1.5

19.2

The type of infringements or matters that may be investigated by the Review Committee include but are not limited to the following: 19.2.1

19.2.2

19.2.3

19.2.4

19.2.5

19.3

Any matter that comes to the attention of the Review Committee outside of the foregoing circumstances, including by referral from the Chief Executive Officer in accordance with Byelaw 19.3.

Sales and All Society Events: (i)

Incorrect submission of any animal and/or herd details at the time of entry

(ii)

False or misleading declaration relating to any animal including herd health records

(iii)

The use of drugs or any other technique that masks or falsely represents the performance and/or behaviour of an animal

(iv)

Breach of requirements relating to personal conduct

(v)

Breach of conduct relating to the treatment of any animal

(vi)

Animal deemed not to be fit for sale or not to present a normal breeding risk for any reason post- inspection and up to the time of sale

Herd Book Irregularities (i)

Cattle not tagged in accordance with relevant statutory legislation

(ii)

Knowingly or persistently submitting incorrect details in animal registration applications

(iii)

Discrepancy between Society and relevant statutory records

(iv)

False or no declaration of caesarean births &/or Recipient Dam information

(v)

Failure to submit required records within time limits set by the Review Committee

(vi)

Failure to submit required DNA Samples within time limits set by the Review Committee

(vii)

Failure to provide FOT calf DNA Sample in required time

(viii)

The intentional or negligent failure to register a transfer of an animal or changes to a herd.

Performance Records (i)

Submission of factually incorrect or misleading performance records

(ii)

Deliberately and persistently submitting incorrect DNA Samples

On Farm Herd/Animal Inspections (i)

Failure to agree to or allow an inspection to take place.

(ii)

Any inspector unable to gain required entry to holding for any reason

(iii)

Required cattle not available for inspection (including as a result of availability of personnel to assist where advance notice of visit has been given)

(iv)

Cattle handling facilities deemed unsuitable for safe inspection (where advance notice of visit has been given).

(v)

Weighing facilities not available (where advance notice of visit has been given)

(vi)

Required herd records not available for inspection

(vii)

Breach of requirements relating to personal conduct

(viii) Other

Breach of conduct relating to the treatment of any animal

(i)

Failure to notify the Society of a change to the controlling interest of a Member or Breeder in accordance with Byelaw 12.7.

(ii)

Any other matter that in the Society's discretion does or could bring the Society, its Members or Breeders into disrepute.

Each complaint received by the Executive Committee or any Council Member shall, without unreasonable delay, be referred to the Chief Executive Officer for assessment under Byelaw 20.1 before any referral to the Review Committee. The individual Council Member shall have no further dealings with the said complaint until advised by the Chief Executive Officer of the outcome of the said Review, and, where appropriate, the cessation of the Appeals procedure.

33 19.4

Any disclosure made pursuant to Byelaw 19.1.4 must state the nature of the complainant's relationship to the Member or Breeder and provide a sufficient basis for the allegation. The Executive Committee and/or Council Member shall take reasonable steps to ensure the identity of the complainant and the nature of the allegation remain confidential. Disclosures shall be received and assessed solely by the Chief Executive Officer, or in the event of their conflict or unavailability the President, who shall record the disclosure in writing, maintain the anonymity of the complainant, and determine whether reasonable grounds or sufficient merit exist to refer the matter to the Executive Committee. Where the Chief Executive Officer determines that no reasonable grounds or sufficient merit exist, that determination and its reasoning shall be recorded in writing and reported to the Chair of Governance of the Society. The complainant shall be notified of the determination and may within three working days request in writing that the Chair of Governance review the determination. The Chair of Governance shall conduct such review independently and their decision shall be final. The Society shall take all reasonable steps to protect the identity of the complainant throughout the process and any subsequent review or appeal, and shall not be compelled by any Member, Breeder or other interested party to disclose the identity of a complainant, save where required to do so by law.

20.

Review Process

20.1

Upon receipt of a complaint or information regarding an infringement or a potential infringement of the Society’s Governing Documents the Chief Executive Officer will conduct a review as to whether, on a prima facie basis, (i) the context and nature of the matter is of sufficient merit to warrant investigation or (ii) that the complaint or referral is vexatious, lacks reasonable grounds, or relates to a matter previously considered and determined by an appropriate body of the Society, and shall thereafter at his/her discretion and while maintaining the privacy of the complainant in so far as able to do so, refer the matter to the Executive Committee of the Council (the 'Executive Committee') or the Review Committee. The Chief Executive Officer shall record such determination in writing. Where the Chief Executive Officer determines that no reasonable grounds or sufficient merit exists to refer the matter to the Executive Committee or Review Committee, the Chief Executive Officer shall notify (where possible) the complainant of such determination. The complainant may, within three business days, request in writing that the Chair of Governance of the Society reviews the Chief Executive Officer's determination. The Chair of Governance shall commence such independent review within five business days and, where the Chair of Governance finds there are reasonable grounds, or is sufficient merit, to refer the matter to the Executive Committee or Review Committee, they may do so and in either case shall record their determination in writing and (where possible) notify the complainant. 20.1.1

Matters referred to the Executive Committee Matters of a serious or complex nature, or those which the Chief Executive Officer deems to be of significant importance to the reputation of the Society, will be referred in the first instance to the Executive Committee.

20.1.2

20.1.3

20.1.4

20.1.5

Upon receipt of information from the Chief Executive Officer, the Executive Committee will either: (i)

dismiss the matter. Dismissed matters are to be reported to the Review Committee and the Council so that they remain fully informed.

(ii)

refer the matter to the Review Committee for investigation and reporting of findings and any subsequent recommendations.

The Review Committee will, while maintaining the privacy of the complainant in so far as able to do so investigate, and conduct matters brought to its attention as it considers appropriate. The Review Committee may decline to consider a complaint where it determines, on a prima facie basis, that such complaint is vexatious, lacks reasonable grounds, or relates to a matter previously considered and determined by an appropriate body of the Society. In doing so, the Review Committee may conduct meetings at a location and in a manner, it deems appropriate, including face-to-face, teleconference or videoconference. It may also request or conduct further herd inspections and may submit requests for further information and herd records of any type. The Review Committee will ensure the nature and outcomes of all meetings are recorded adequately by such means as it sees fit. Such records are to be made available in the first instance to the Chief Executive Officer who will be entitled to share part or the whole of such records as the Chief Executive Officer considers appropriate mindful of Society’s Policies and the reputation of Society and its Members and officers at all times.

20.1.6

The Member/Breeder against whom a complaint has been made or who is subject to investigation or review must be given an opportunity by the Review Committee to make written or oral submissions in response to the complaint, investigation or review.

20.1.7

All written communication from the Review Committee to the Member/Breeder will be sent by email and/or first-class post.

20.1.8 20.2

The Review Committee will report its findings and recommendations to the Council as soon as reasonably practicable. The findings and recommendations of the Review Committee 20.2.1

20.2.2

The Review Committee shall report its findings to the Council and may, on investigating any matter referred to it by the Executive Committee, make one or more determinations as to the severity of each of the findings as determined by the pre-determined matrix as set out in Byelaw 20.2.2. In determining the appropriate measure or sanction from those available under 20.2.2, the Review Committee and the Council shall have regard to the following: (i)

the seriousness of the breach and whether it was deliberate, reckless, or inadvertent;

(ii)

the harm caused or likely to be caused to the Society, its Members, or the breed;

(iii)

whether the Member cooperated with the investigation or took any remedial action prior to the determination of the sanction;

(iv)

any previous findings against the Member or Breeder; and

(v)

whether the sanction is fair and reasonable in all the circumstances.

Following the Review Committee's findings and reporting of recommendations, to the Council, the following measures and sanctions may be taken and the period of retention of such findings, measures and sanctions as set out below: Measures and Sanctions

The period pertaining to the retention of the information regarding measures and/or sanctions applied

No case to answer

12 months

No further action taken

18 months

A conditional reprimand for a defined period

24 months following the end of the defined period

Referral of case circumstances to appropriate statutory authorities

36 months

The imposition of 7-day birth notification for a defined or unlimited period of time

24 months following the end of the defined period

Suspension from some or all Society activities for a defined or unlimited period of time

36 months following the end of the defined period

Herd book status/declaration changed (including but not limited to suspension, de-registration or withdrawal)

Indefinite

The payment of any fine proportionate to the offence and its impact by the Member/Breeder as determined by the Council to the Society.

24 months from payment of the fine

Full or partial payment of the costs incurred by the Society in investigating the matter including but not limited to any legal costs.

36 months from payment of the costs

The payment of a sum by the Member/Breeder to the Society to be determined by the Council, where it has been determined that the Member/Breeder has financially benefitted from one or more breach of the Byelaws.

36 months from payment of the sum

Measures and Sanctions

Expulsion of the Member from the membership of the Society for a defined or unlimited period of time 20.2.3

The period pertaining to the retention of the information regarding measures and/or sanctions applied 60 months from the end of the defined period

In making its recommendation as to next steps, the Review Committee: (i) must inform the Council of any submissions made by the Member/Breeder concerned together with copies of any evidence submitted. It must also provide details of any dissenting view from within the Review Committee pursuant to Byelaw 18; (ii)

may refer to a Member's/Breeder's involvement in previous cases where misconduct has been upheld following referral to the Review Committee, and the circumstances of those cases, as well as any other investigation the Member has been the subject of and within the timescales as detailed in Byelaw 20.1.8; and

(iii)

shall state briefly in its recommendations why the proposed sanction is considered appropriate, and the Council shall record its reasoning in writing where it departs from that recommendation.

20.3

A summary diagram of the case review process can be found in Appendix 3.

21.

Council's Consideration of the Review Committee Recommendations

21.1

The Council will meet as soon as practically possible to review the findings and recommendations of the Review Committee. The Council will have three options available to it; 21.1.1

to dismiss the case, with no further action required. On this basis the Member/Breeder being investigated will be informed in writing as soon as practically possibly. Any other parties will be informed at the Society's discretion.

21.1.2

to refer it back to the Review Committee with questions or a request for further investigation. The Review Committee will act on this as soon as practically possible. The Member/Breeder being investigated and any other relevant parties will be informed at the discretion of the Review Committee; or

21.1.3

to determine the measures and sanctions following the recommendations of the Review Committee.

21.2

Decisions made by the Council pursuant to Byelaw 21 shall be by simple majority.

21.3

Decisions made by the Council pursuant to Byelaw 21.1.1 and 21.1.3 shall be deemed the "First Council Decision". This does not include decisions resulting from the appeal process pursuant to Byelaw 25.4.2.

21.4

Council members shall withdraw from cases and decisions made under Byelaw 21 where they are a member of the Review Committee or have or could have a direct or material indirect interest that conflicts, or possibly may conflict, with the interests of the Member/Breeder subject to the review.

21.5

The burden of proof on the Society shall be on a balance of probability and no greater burden

22.

Notices of Findings, Measures and Sanctions

22.1

The Chief Executive Officer will notify the Member/Breeder in writing of the outcome of the Review Process and/or any measures and sanctions imposed on the Member/Breeder and/or their cattle as soon as reasonably practicable

22.2

The findings of, and measures and sanctions imposed by the Council pursuant to the Review Committee findings shall be final and binding on all parties in every case, except that the Member/Breeder against whom a determination has been made under Byelaw 21.3 may appeal to the Appeal Panel as set out in Byelaw 23. Members/Breeders against whom a determination has been made pursuant to Byelaw 25.4.2 have no further right of appeal.

22.3

The findings of, measures and sanctions imposed by the Council shall be notified to the Society's membership at the sole discretion of the Council through the Society's online and printed communication platforms.

22.4

No sanction shall be applied or enforced in a manner that conflicts with the Society's obligations under the Zootechnical Regulations or the approved Breeding Programme.

22.5

A summary diagram of the Appeals process can be found in Appendix 4.

23.

Appeals against the First Council Decision

23.1

Members/Breeders have the right to lodge an application to appeal the First Council Decision and must do this in writing (for which purpose email will be acceptable) to the Chief Executive Officer within 28 days of the written notice of the Council's decision.

23.2

The grounds for the appeal must be clearly stated in the application with reference to the elected grounds of appeal as set out in Byelaw 23.4 and must include all supporting information and documentation.

23.3

Members/Breeders wishing to submit an application to appeal will be required to lodge an appeals fee of £2,000 + VAT with the Society at the time of their application. An application to appeal shall not be considered or taken forward until such time as the appeals fee is lodged in the Society account by the Member/Breeder submitting the application to appeal. This will be held by the Society until conclusion of the appeal process as laid out in Byelaw 25. If all or part of the Council's decision is upheld, the monies will be used to offset any sanction, legal costs of the Society associated with the appeal or sums ordered under Byelaw 26, with any balance fully returned to the appellant as soon as practically possible.

23.4

Any application to appeal will be sent to the Appeal Panel for determination. The Chief Executive Officer shall inform the Council of the application to appeal. The Appeal Panel shall proceed so long as the applicant can reasonably and adequately demonstrate one or more of the following grounds (on a prima facie basis): 23.4.1

Error in law

23.4.2

Material error in fact

23.4.3

New evidence is provided with the appeal application that could only have come available through the passing of the time between the Council's decision on the case and the lodging of an application to appeal. The production of evidence or information that would have been available at the investigative stages but not shared and subsequently produced at this stage will not be regarded as adequate grounds for an appeal to go forward. (i)

In the event new evidence is considered and accepted by the Council, the matter will be referred directly for further review under the process prescribed in Byelaws 20.1.1 to 20.1.8and Byelaws 21 and 22.

(ii)

The decision reached by the Council pursuant to Byelaw 23.4.3 will be regarded as 'the first Council Decision' pursuant to Byelaw 21.1.3 and therefore subject to onward appeal at the Member's/Breeder's discretion under Byelaw 23.

23.5

All cases that are submitted for appeal will be passed to the Appeal Panel by the Chief Executive Officer within 21 days from the date of lodgement of the appeals fee.

23.6

Within 21 days of notification of appeal by the Chief Executive Officer, the Review Committee may submit a Response to the Grounds of Appeal.

23.7

The Appeal Panel shall be provided with: 23.7.1

A copy of the original Review Committee recommendations and accompanying documents, to include any submissions made by the Member/Breeder;

23.7.2

The decision of the Council

23.7.3

The grounds of appeal and any supporting documents submitted by the Appellant

23.7.4

Any Response to the Grounds of Appeal submitted by the Review Committee, a copy of which must also be provided to the Member/Breeder.

23.8

The Appeal Panel members will be established by the Chief Executive Officer. All appeals will be dealt with in accordance with the Appeals Procedure set out in Byelaw 25.

24.

The Appeal Panel

24.1

The Appeal Panel of the Society is appointed by the Council. Its role is to consider matters referred to it under Byelaw 23.5.

24.2

Members of the Appeal Panel will be appointed on a case-by-case basis by the Council from a pool normally comprising at least 10 Past Presidents of the Society and a legal representative nominated by the Society. Panel members are approved bi-annually by the Council, or sooner at its discretion.

24.3

At least three panel members will normally be appointed to review each individual case and a panel chairman for each case will be nominated from within those appointed to review the case.

24.4

Appeal Panel members will not review cases where there is an identified conflict of interest.

24.5

Administrative & technical support for all Appeal Panel activities will be provided by Society staff as appropriate.

25.

The Appeal Process

25.1

The Member/Breeder appealing the Council's decision (the 'Appellant') will be notified of the date that the appeal application (as prescribed in Byelaw 23) has been passed to the selected Appeal Panel under Byelaw 23.5 within 7 days of that date.

25.2

Appeals will be dealt with by way of review of the findings of the Review Committee and the decision of the Council in light of the grounds of appeal and may be dealt with by a document & evidence review without the need for a hearing or meeting in person.

25.3

The Appeal Panel shall notify the Society and the Member/Breeder of its decision as soon as practicable and in any event within 14 days of receipt of the matter being referred to it.

25.4

Powers of the Appeal Panel The Appeal Panel may: 25.4.1

Dismiss the appeal and uphold the decision of the Council

25.4.2

Make a new determination which shall be binding on all parties (including, for the avoidance of doubt, the Council), save in the following cases: (i)

Error in law

(ii)

Material error in fact

(iii)

25.4.3

26.

New evidence is provided with the appeal application that could only have come available through the passing of the time between the Council's decision on the case and the lodging of an application to appeal. Refer the matter back to the Review Committee for re-consideration. In this instance the Appeal Panel will set out the reasons for referring the matter back to the Review Committee, any concerns, and its recommendations.

25.4.4

In the event that the matter is referred back to the Review Committee, the Review Committee will reconsider the case, carry out any further investigations as recommended by the Appeal Panel and shall report its recommendations to the Council as soon as practicable.

25.4.5

The Council will consider the recommendations of the Review Committee made under Byelaw 25.4.4 under the process set out in Byelaw 21 and the decision of the Council shall be final.

Cost of the Appeal

The Appeal Panel may, on finding that a Council decision against a Member has been proved in whole or in part, apply a penalty to the Member as part of its final decision in addition to upholding the measures and sanctions imposed by the Council. This may include, but not be limited to, the following: 26.1

Full or partial payment of the costs incurred by the Appeal Panel and/or the Review Committee and/or the Society in investigating the matter (including but not limited to any legal costs or costs incurred in investigating a matter); and/or

26.2

In the event that the appeal is dismissed, the Appeal Panel may order that the appeal fee is applied against any costs incurred.

27.

Notice of Findings, Penalties and Appeals

27.1

The Chief Executive Officer will notify the Appellant and the Council, in writing, of the findings of the Appeal Panel and/or any penalties imposed as soon as reasonably practicable following receipt of such decision.

27.2

The findings of and penalties imposed by the Appeal Panel shall be final and binding on all parties, subject to those cases referred back to the Review Committee, in which case the decision of the Council pursuant to Byelaw 25.4.5 shall be final and binding on all parties.

28.

Website Precedence, Notices and Publication

28.1

Where any guidance, conditions, requirements, directions, or procedural information issued by the Society are published in both printed and electronic form, the version published on the Society's official website shall take precedence in the event of any inconsistency.

28.2

Any such guidance, conditions, requirements, directions, or information may be communicated by such means as the Society considers appropriate, including publication on its official website.

28.3

The Society may amend or update such material by publication on its website, and unless otherwise stated, such amendments shall take effect 21 days after publication.

29.

General Application and Interpretation.

29.1

Save where expressly stated otherwise, the Byelaws applicable to any act, omission, or breach shall be those in force at the time the act or omission occurred.

29.2

Where a breach consists of a continuing act or omission, a failure to correct, concealment, or a series of related acts or omissions occurring over time, the Society may assess each such act or omission by reference to the Byelaws in force at the relevant time.

29.3

Notwithstanding the date on which any act, omission, or breach occurred, the Society may investigate, inspect, test, audit, and take enforcement action in respect of that breach using the powers, procedures, methods, and technologies available to it under the Byelaws then in force, including where such methods or technologies were not available or in routine use at the time of the original act or omission.

29.4

Where these Byelaws confer discretion on the Society or the Council in relation to the Herd Book, Breeding Programme, or matters governed by the Zootechnical Regulations, such discretion shall be exercised in accordance with the Zootechnical Regulations, the Society's approved Breeding Programme, and the principles of objectivity, proportionality, and non-discrimination.

29.5

If any provision of these Byelaws is held by any competent authority to be invalid or unenforceable in whole or in part, the validity of the remaining provisions of these Byelaws shall not be affected thereby.

29.6

References to clauses in earlier editions of the Byelaws are for information only, and do not form part of these Byelaws.

29.7

Any reference in these Byelaws to a time of day shall be to the time in Edinburgh, Scotland.

29.8

The formation, existence, construction, performance, validity and all aspects whatsoever of these Byelaws or any term of it (including non-contractual disputes or claims) shall be governed by the laws of Scotland. Save in respect of arbitration under Byelaw 15.16.3, the courts of Scotland shall have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any disputes (including non-contractual disputes or claims), which may arise out of or in connection with these Byelaws.

Appendix 1 Definitions Society and Governance •

Appeal Panel – The body appointed by the Society to hear and determine appeals against decisions of the Review Committee or other Committees of the Society.

•

Articles – The Memorandum and Articles of Association of the Society, as amended from time to time.

•

Byelaws – The Byelaws of the Society in force from time to time.

•

Chief Executive Officer – The Breed Secretary of the Society from time to time.

•

Committees – Any committee established by the Society under its Articles, Byelaws, or policies, including permanent and ad hoc committees.

•

Council – The elected Council of Management (or equivalent governing body) of the Society.

•

Executive Committee: has the meaning given in Byelaw 20.1.

•

Governing Documents – The Society's Articles, Byelaws, and Society Policies and any Guidance, in each case as amended from time to time.

•

Review Committee – The body appointed by the Society to investigate and determine complaints or breaches of any of the Governing Documents.

•

Society – The Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society, or any successor body.

•

Society Policies – Any rules, procedures, or operational policies formally adopted and published by the Society to support the implementation of these Byelaws.

•

Society Representative – Any person authorised to act on behalf of the Society, including directors, officers, employees, contractors, committee members, judges, and stewards.

•

Working Group – A body established by the Council or a Committee of the Society for a specific purpose, which may investigate, advise, or report but does not exercise delegated decisionmaking powers unless expressly authorised.

Compliance and Regulation •

Approved for Bovine Use – Approved for administration to cattle by the relevant UK regulatory authority at the time of use.

•

Breed Standards – The physical, genetic, and performance characteristics of Aberdeen-Angus cattle as set out in the Society's Breeding Programme and Zootechnical Regulations, as amended from time to time.

•

Breeding Programme – Has the meaning given to such term in the Zootechnical Regulation.

•

Breed Type – The set of characteristics typical of the Aberdeen-Angus breed, including conformation, temperament, and appearance, as defined by the Society's Breed Standards.

•

Competent Authority – The statutory authority responsible for recognising breeding programmes and herd books under the Zootechnical Regulations in the United Kingdom.

•

Duplicate Entry – Any registration of an animal in more than one herd book, other than in the herd book of origin, where such entries are inconsistent or conflicting.

•

Equivalence – A determination by the Society that the standards of a non-UK Herd Book are sufficiently aligned with those of the Society to permit registration.

•

Export Certificate – A document issued by a recognised Herd Book authority certifying an Animal's registration and eligibility for export in accordance with the Zootechnical Regulations.

•

Herd Book of Origin – The herd book in which an animal was first registered, as defined under the Zootechnical Regulations.

•

Import Fee / Export Fee – The charges levied by the Society for processing the import or export of an Animal, as published by the Society and amended from time to time.

•

Importer – Any individual or entity responsible for the importation of Animals or Germplasm into the United Kingdom for registration or breeding purposes.

•

Objection Period – has the meaning given in Byelaw 18.5.

•

Recognised Agency – Any laboratory or organisation approved by the Society and/or by the International Society for Animal Genetics (ISAG) for the conduct of DNA testing and related services.

•

Recognised Herd Book – A Herd Book maintained by another competent authority or organisation that is recognised by the Society under the Zootechnical Regulations or by determination of equivalence.

•

Substance – Any drug, stimulant, tranquilliser, or chemical compound capable of altering the performance, appearance, behaviour, or presentation of an Animal.

•

Third Country – Any country outside the United Kingdom and European Union, as defined in the Zootechnical Regulations.

•

Zootechnical Certificate – A certificate of registration issued in accordance with the Zootechnical Regulations, including an Export Certificate where relevant.

•

Zootechnical Regulations – The retained Regulation (EU) 2016/1012, together with all associated UK implementing legislation, as amended, replaced, or succeeded from time to time.

Membership and Representation •

Breeder – Any individual, partnership, company, or organisation responsible for the ownership, management, or registration of breeding animals with the Society, whether or not they are a Member.

•

Eligible Breeder – A Breeder who has complied with all requirements of the Society's Breeding Programme, Zootechnical Regulations, and payment of applicable fees, and whose breeding activity therefore qualifies for registration or other recognition by the Society.

•

Member – Any individual, partnership, company, or organisation admitted into membership of the Society in accordance with its Governing Documents.

•

Owner – The individual, partnership, company, or other legal entity recorded as the current legal owner of an Animal in the Society's records or otherwise proven by documentation accepted by the Society.

•

Representative (of a Member) – Any person acting on behalf of or assisting a Member, including staff, family members, agents, or contractors, provided such authority has been granted by the Member in writing or otherwise accepted by the Society.

Herd Book and Registration •

Animal – Any bovine submitted for registration or DNA testing through the Society, including live animals, embryos, and stored genetic material such as semen.

•

Base Female / Base Cow – A female animal meeting the eligibility criteria for entry into the Supplementary Register as the foundation of a pedigree line.

•

Herd Book – The official register of pedigree Aberdeen-Angus cattle maintained by the Society in accordance with the Zootechnical Regulations, including any supplementary registers or subsections.

•

Eligible Third Country – A country which (i) is listed as an 'eligible third country' for the purposes of the Zootechnical Regulation, and (ii) maintains a recognised Aberdeen-Angus or Angus herd book operating to standards considered by the Scottish Ministers to be materially equivalent to those of the Society's Breeding Programme (in accordance with the Zootechnical Standards (Scotland) Regulations 2019).

•

Entry into the Herd Book – The formal recording of an Animal in the Society's Herd Book, subject to eligibility criteria, documentation, and payment of fees.

•

Intimation of Birth – The notification to the Society of a calf's birth, required within a specified time period, whether or not the calf is subsequently registered.

•

Main Section – The principal part of the Herd Book in which purebred Aberdeen-Angus cattle are registered in accordance with the Zootechnical Regulations.

•

Native Angus – An Aberdeen-Angus animal meeting the criteria set by the Society for recognition as part of the original native Angus population.

•

Pedigree Certificate – The official certificate issued by the Society confirming an Animal's registration and pedigree, in physical or digital form.

•

Registration – The formal act of entering an Animal into the Herd Book, including allocation of a pedigree number and issue of a certificate.

•

Registration Certificate – The official certificate issued by the Society confirming an Animal's registration in the Herd Book or Supplementary Register; may also be referred to as a Pedigree Certificate.

•

Registration Window – The age-based time period within which an animal may be registered, used for determining fees and eligibility for shows, sales, and performance programmes.

•

Supplementary Register – A register maintained by the Society supplementary to the Herd Book, including animals accepted under upgrading, grading, or other eligibility pathways.

Transfers •

Auctioneer – has the meaning given in Byelaw 15.1.6(iii)

•

Calf at Foot – A calf accompanying its dam at the time of sale or transfer, under six months of age, and fully registered in the Herd Book.

•

Effective Date of Transfer – The date accepted by the Society as the operative date of change of ownership for Herd Book purposes.

•

Digital Transfer System – Any digital platform approved by the Society for submitting and recording Transfers.

•

Official Society Sale – A sale of animals conducted under the auspices of the Society in accordance with approved sale regulations.

•

Sale Levy - has the meaning given in Byelaw 15.9.1

•

Sale under the auspices of the Society – Any sale of animals organised, licensed, supported, or endorsed by the Society.

•

Transfer – The formal process by which a change of ownership of a registered Animal is recorded in the Society's Herd Book or Supplementary Register.

•

Transferor – The recorded owner of a registered Animal effecting or authorising a Transfer.

•

Transferee – The individual or entity acquiring ownership of a registered Animal through a Transfer.

•

Upset Price – The minimum price set at a Sale, which, at an official sale shall be set by the Society and shall be set in guineas unless with the prior written agreement of the Society.

•

Vendor – has the meaning given in Byelaw 15.1.6(iii)

Events •

Event Organised by the Society – Any show, competition, meeting, or activity directly organised by the Society.

•

Event under the auspices of the Society – Any show, sale, competition, meeting, or activity organised, licensed, supported, or endorsed by the Society.

DNA, Genetic Testing, and Reproductive Material •

Artificial Insemination (or "AI") – The deliberate introduction of semen into a female animal's reproductive tract by other than natural service, whether by the breeder or a licensed provider.

•

Approved Place – Any facility authorised by the relevant statutory authority or recognised by the Society for the collection, processing, storage, or distribution of semen or embryos.

•

Cloning – The asexual reproduction of an Animal achieved by somatic cell nuclear transfer or any other technique resulting in a genetically identical individual, whether or not permitted under applicable legislation at the time.

•

Created Material – Any physical material, data, results, or outputs derived from the processing of a DNA Sample, including genotypes, parentage results, trait markers and lysate.

•

DNA Sample – Any biological material submitted for DNA testing, including hair, blood, semen, or tissue.

•

DNA Policy – The operational policy adopted by the Society governing DNA testing from time to time.

•

DNA Profile – A genetic identification profile produced using a Society-approved panel of markers for parentage verification or breed composition analysis.

•

Donor Cow – A female from which ova are collected for the purpose of Fertilised Ovum Transfer (FOT) or in vitro fertilisation (IVF).

•

Genetic Engineering / Genetic Modification (GE/GM) – Any technique that alters the genetic material of an animal or Germplasm in a manner that does not occur naturally by mating or recombination, including the use of recombinant DNA or transgenic technologies, as defined in applicable legislation.

•

Germplasm – Genetic material used for reproduction, including but not limited to semen, embryos, ova, and any other reproductive material approved for bovine use.

•

Nose Ring – a nose ring as required under the rules of the relevant livestock market or sale venue which shall be fitted to all entire male animals entered for sale in accordance with applicable welfare legislation

•

Recipient Dam – A female into which a fertilised ovum or embryo is implanted for the purpose of gestation.

•

Service Certificate – A certificate issued by the owner of a sire confirming service or insemination of a female animal on a specified date or dates.

•

Verification – Confirmation of an Animal's parentage, breed composition, or other attribute through DNA analysis.

Records, Compliance, and Fees •

200th Calf Rule – The requirement that every 200th calf registered in the Herd Book from a herd, starting from 1 November 2026, shall be subject to a Data Review and, if necessary, inperson Herd Inspection.

•

Data Review – A review of records, performance data, or statistical information carried out by the Society to verify compliance with its Byelaws or Breeding Programme.

•

Fees – Charges levied by the Society for services, registrations, or other activities, as published from time to time and amended at the discretion of the Council.

•

Genetic Evaluation – The process of estimating genetic merit through Society-approved statistical analysis incorporating pedigree, performance, and genomic data.

•

Herd Inspection – An inspection conducted by or on behalf of the Society to verify herd records, animal identity, physical condition, or compliance with Byelaws.

•

Herd Records – Records maintained by a Breeder or Owner containing at least details of name, Herd Book number, date of birth, sire/dam identifiers, acquisitions, disposals, and date of death, as required by these Byelaws.

•

Misconduct – Any false, misleading, or fraudulent act, omission, or statement in dealings with the Society, or any breach of its Byelaws, Policies, or Governing Documents, subject to investigation under the Review Committee process.

•

Performance Recording – The collection and use of performance data (such as weights, measures, and traits) for inclusion in Society-approved herd recording or evaluation schemes.

•

Tagging / Identification – The allocation and application of an official identification number and ear tag (or equivalent identifier) as required by statutory regulation.

Herd Prefixes and Naming •

Animal Name – The full registered name of an animal as recorded in the Herd Book, comprising the Herd Prefix, any permitted descriptors, the family name and permitted additions, together with the required suffix.

•

Ear Tag Number – The official identification number issued under applicable statutory or regulatory requirements, used in constructing the animal's registered name.

•

Family Name – The approved family identifier assigned through the dam line and recorded in the Herd Book, beginning with an approved initial letter.

•

Herd Prefix – A unique word or combination of words approved and licensed by the Society to identify animals bred by a Member. The prefix remains the absolute property of the Society and is licensed to the Member during their membership, subject to these Byelaws.

•

Prefix Standards – The eligibility rules and restrictions for approval of Herd Prefixes as set out by the Society from time to time.

•

Year Letter – The alphabetical identifier allocated annually by the Society to denote the calving season year, in accordance with the sequence set out in the Herd Book.

Intellectual Property and Licensing •

Guidance – Any written rules or conditions issued by the Society relating to the use of the Marks.

•

Licence – Any agreement between the Society and a licensee permitting use of the Marks.

•

Marks / Licensed Marks – The registered trade marks, logos, collective or certification marks of the Society, as listed and authorised from time to time.

•

Misuse – Any use of the Marks contrary to the Licence, the Byelaws, or Society Policies, including any use likely to mislead the public or damage the reputation of the Society.

Appendix 2 Requirements of the Zootechnical Certificate in accordance with the EU Zootechnic Regulation (2016) Zootechnical certificate, in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2016/1012, for trade in purebred breeding animals of the bovine species (Bos taurus, Bos indicus, Bubalus bubalis)

(a logo of the issuing breed society or competent authority may be included) Certificate number (blank if not applicable)

Name of issuing breed society/competent authority (provide contact details and, where available, a reference to the website)

Name of breeding book

Class within the main section of the breeding book where animal is entered (blank if not applicable)

Sex of animal

Breeding book number of animal

Identification of purebred breeding animal

Identity verification (blank if not applicable)

Name of breed of purebred breeding animal

7.1 System

8.1 Method

7.2 Individual identification number

8.2 Result

7.3 Animal health identification number (blank if not applicable) 7.4 Name (blank if not applicable) 9.

Date (use format dd.mm.yyy) and country of birth of animal

10. Name, address and email address (blank if not applicable) of breeder 11. Name, address and email address (blank if not applicable) of owner 12. The pedigree of the purebred breeding animal 12.1 Sire Breeding book number and section Name (blank if not applicable)

12.2 Dam Breeding book number and section Name (blank if not applicable)

12.1.1

Paternal Grandsire Breeding book number and section Name (blank if not applicable)

12.1.2

Paternal Granddam Breeding book number and section Name (blank if not applicable)

12.2.3

Maternal Grandsire Breeding book number and section Name (blank if not applicable)

12.2.4

Maternal Granddam Breeding book number and section Name (blank if not applicable)

13. Additional information (blank if not applicable) 13.1 Results of performance testing (a link to the Animal Details page on Taurus will be inserted) 13.2 Up-to-date results of the genetic evaluation carried out last on (insert date in format dd.mm.yyyy) 13.3 Genetic defects and genetic peculiarities of the animal in relation to the breeding programme 13.4 Other relevant information Coat colour:

FOT:

Myostatin:

Twin:

Genetic colour:

Birthweight:

Horned/polled genetics: (all or some blank if not applicable)

14. Insemination/mating (delete where not applicable) 14.1 Date (use format dd.mm.yyyy) and/or running from/to dates 14.2 Identification of fertilising male 14.2.1

Individual identification number

14.2.2

Name (blank if not applicable)

14.2.3

System of identity verification and result

15. Done at (place of issue):...................................................................... 16. on (date of issue): .............................. 17. Name and capacity of the signatory: ........................................................................................................................ (insert in capital letters name and capacity of the individual signing the certificate) 18. Signature.............................................................................................. In accordance with Byelaw 3: 1.

Bold type in this Appendix indicates information required from the breeder or his/her authorised representative for the purposes of animal registration. It is the responsibility of the breeder or his/her authorised representative to ensure the information supplied is accurate.

Type in italics in this Appendix indicates the information required in the pedigree certificate by the EU Zootechnical Regulation (2016) that is reliant on submission of information by owners (or their authorised representatives) later in an animal's life. Whilst it is the responsibility of the Society to ensure the information is printed on the pedigree certificate, it is the owner's responsibility (or that of his/her authorised representative) to ensure the information is available as required and is accurate.

Appendix 3 Summary of the Review Process

Appendix 4 Summary of the Appeal Process The appeal process of the Society can be summarised as follows. Full detail of each stage is included within Byelaws 23 - 26 (inclusive) above. This diagram is intended to be used as an illustrative outline of the process only and should not be relied upon. Accordingly, in the event of any discrepancy between the process started within Byelaws 23 - 26 (inclusive) above and this Appendix 4, the terms of Byelaws 23 - 26 (inclusive) shall prevail.

T3039.2 1013373487 19 KXW

Appendix 5 Health Requirements A1. Purpose and Status This Appendix sets out the mandatory health requirements applicable to animals entered for Sales governed by Byelaw 15, including the Health Requirements Matrix (the “Matrix”). A1.2 This Appendix is binding on all Vendors, Members, Auctioneers and Purchasers participating in any Sale to which it applies. A1.3 In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between: •

this Appendix,

•

any narrative provision of Byelaw 15, or

•

any catalogue, pen card, sale card or other written or electronic material,

the Matrix shall prevail. A2. Application A2.1 The Matrix applies compulsorily to: •

all animals entered for Official Sales; and

•

animals entered for Authorised Sales where the Society has specified that the Matrix applies to that Sale.

A2.2 Supported Sales are not required to comply with the Matrix unless expressly stated in writing by the Society, but remain subject to the obligation of correct and fair description under Byelaw 15.1.6(iv). A2.3 The Matrix applies to: •

males (entire or castrated);

•

females; and

•

calves at foot.

A3. Timing and Version Control A3.1 The version of the Matrix applicable to a Sale shall be the version: •

published on the Society website; and

•

in force

at the date on which entries for that Sale open. A3.2 The applicable Matrix shall apply equally to all Vendors and Purchasers participating in that Sale. A4. CHeCS Membership and General Principles A4.1 All Vendors entering animals for Official Sales must be participating members of a CHeCSlicensed herd health scheme and abide by all rules of said scheme. A4.2 Vendors shall ensure that all health information provided in connection with a Sale is complete, accurate, current, and not misleading by omission or inference. A4.3 Participation in a health scheme does not of itself imply compliance with the Matrix; compliance is determined solely by reference to the Matrix requirements. A5. Minimum Health Requirements A5.1 Animals must meet the minimum health requirements set out in the Matrix for the following conditions (as applicable to the Sale type): •

Johne’s disease

•

Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD)

49 •

Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR)

•

Leptospirosis

•

Tuberculosis (TB)

•

Any additional conditions determined by the Council and published in advance

A5.2 Failure to meet any mandatory requirement in the Matrix shall render the animal ineligible for Sale. A6. Persistently Infected Animals (BVD) A6.1 Persistently Infected (PI) animals are prohibited from all Society Sales. A6.2 Any animal returning a positive BVD antigen or PCR test result that has not subsequently been retested and confirmed negative shall be rejected from all Society Sales. A6.3 All animals with a positive BVD virus test that have not subsequently been retested and negative result submitted to the Society, at least seven days prior to the Official Society Sale date will be withdrawn from said Official Society Sale and shall be barred from entry to the Official Society Sale site for the period of the Official Society Sale. A7. Contagious and Active Conditions A7.1 Animals presenting with contagious or potentially contagious conditions, including (but not limited to) warts, ringworm or mange, must be accompanied by a veterinary certificate confirming: •

appropriate treatment; and

•

non-contagious status at the time of Sale.

A7.2 Animals presenting with severe, active or untreated disease shall be rejected. A8. Pen Cards, Disclosure and Changes in Status A8.1 Each animal presented for Sale must display a pen card showing, where applicable: •

herd health status (including Johne’s disease, BVD, IBR and Leptospirosis);

•

dates and results of tests supporting accreditation or monitored status;

•

TB test date and testing interval (or statutory exemption);

•

vaccination dates where required by the Matrix; and

•

calf health status, where applicable.

A8.2 Pen cards are produced and supplied by third-party health scheme providers. Vendors are responsible for ensuring that the pen card displayed for each animal at the time of the Sale accurately reflects the animal’s and/or herd’s current health status and supporting test dates and results as at the time of the Sale, and for ensuring that any material change since the time of entry is appropriately disclosed to the Society and, where required, announced from the rostrum. A8.3 Vendors must notify the Society and the Auctioneer (or, for other Sales, the person(s) specified by the Society) of any material change to any health declaration, test result, vaccination status, accreditation or monitored status, or TB testing interval affecting an entered animal as soon as reasonably practicable and in any event prior to inspection and Sale. A9. Evidence and Record Retention A9.1 Vendors must retain the following records for a minimum period of 14 months from the date of Sale: •

laboratory certificates;

•

CHeCS scheme declarations;

•

veterinary attestations;

50 •

import testing documentation;

•

relevant movement records.

A9.2 Vendors shall produce such records upon request by the Society or its appointed representatives. A9.3 By entering an animal for a Sale governed by Byelaw 15, the Vendor shall be deemed to have authorised the Society (and its appointed representatives and contractors) to request and obtain directly from any relevant third party (including laboratories, CHeCS scheme providers and veterinary practices) such information and documentation as the Society reasonably requires to verify compliance with this Appendix and the Matrix. A10. Imported Animals A10.1 Imported animals entered for Sale must: •

have satisfied CHeCS entry requirements, including any additional Johne’s disease testing required for imported cattle; and

•

have been resident on a UK holding for a minimum period of 90 days prior to Sale, unless otherwise permitted by law.

A11. Inspection, Rejection and Enforcement A11.1 Compliance with this Appendix and the Matrix shall be assessed by Society Inspectors and/or Sale Veterinarians acting on behalf of the Society. A11.2 Any animal failing to meet the Matrix requirements, or for which required evidence is incomplete, unavailable or inconsistent, may be rejected. A11.3 Decisions of Society representatives regarding health compliance and rejection are final and binding. A12. Rostrum Announcements A12.1 Rostrum announcements may clarify, update or supplement health information declared in the catalogue or on pen cards. A12.2 Rostrum announcements cannot override, waive or dilute any mandatory requirement of the Matrix. A13. Purchaser Awareness and Acceptance A13.1 Purchasers are deemed to have notice of: •

this Appendix;

•

the Matrix applicable to the Sale; and

•

any rostrum announcements made at the time of Sale.

A13.2 Purchasers accept that health compliance is determined by reference to the Matrix, declared information and any rostrum announcements, subject always to the authority of the Matrix. A14. Publication and Authority A14.1 The authoritative version of the Matrix shall be that published on the Society website. A14.2 The Society may amend the Matrix from time to time, subject to the timing provisions in A3 of this Appendix.

Appendix 6 Herd-Book Registration Procedure Part A — Registration A1. Status A1.1

This Appendix summarises the procedure for entry in the Herd Book under Byelaws 3, 6 and 11. It is explanatory; in the event of any discrepancy the Byelaws prevail. Applications made otherwise than by the Breeder or by an Owner under Byelaws 3.7.1 or 3.7.2 are dealt with in Part B — Applications under Byelaw 3.7.3.

A1.2

References to verification are references to genotyping and parent verification to the standard set out in the Society DNA Policy as amended from time to time.

A2. Summary of the procedure

A3. Pending applications A3.1

Where an application has been submitted with complete and accurate information but verification has not been completed, or sums remain outstanding, the application remains pending and the animal is recorded as pre-registered. A pre-registered animal has not been entered in the Herd Book, and the obligation to issue a pedigree certificate under Byelaw 6.11.1 arises on entry.

A3.2

Byelaw 6.10 applies to applications incomplete by reason of missing or inaccurate information. It does not apply to a complete application awaiting verification, and no fee is forfeited in that case.

A3.3

No time limit applies to a pending application.

52 A4. Completion and entry A4.1

An application is completed when the animal has been verified and all sums due to the Society have been settled, whereupon the animal is entered in the Herd Book and a pedigree certificate is issued. Completion may be initiated by the Breeder or by the current owner; the registration fee already paid stands to the application, and verification and any other fees are payable by the party requesting completion.

A4.2

Where no viable tissue sample is held, verification may be completed using hair or semen to the extent accepted under the DNA Policy, or by reconstruction from available relatives where the Society considers this possible.

Part B — Applications under Byelaw 3.7.3 A5. Application A5.1

Where an application for entry is to be made by a person who is neither the Breeder nor an Owner falling within Byelaws 3.7.1 or 3.7.2, application shall be made in writing to the Chief Executive Officer, stating the identity of the animal and its dam, the identity of the Breeder, the reason the Breeder is unable or unwilling to submit the registration, and the applicant’s interest in the animal.

A5.2

The non-refundable fee set by the Society Council from time to time is payable on submission and is not refunded whatever the outcome.

A6. Determination A6.1

The Executive Committee shall consider the application and make a recommendation to the Society Council, which shall determine it at its next ordinary meeting having regard to whether entry is necessary for the proper maintenance of the Herd Book. Each application is determined on its own facts and is not a precedent. The decision of the Society Council is final.

A7. Effect A7.1

Where granted, the applicant may submit the registration and A3 and A4 apply to it. A determination under this Part does not alter the identity of the Breeder under Byelaw 3.8 nor confer entitlement to the Breeder’s prefix, and the animal shall be named in accordance with Byelaw 12.