Chris Bennett: University of Hertford’s optometry course plans spark strong response

How much control should the regulator and the professional associations exert over the supply of professionals to the market? The University of Hertford’s decision to create an optometry course has galvanised the profession into action in a way seldom seen. As Optician went to press around 1,400 people had signed the online petition calling for the course at Hertford to be stopped and a cap to be placed on the number of optometry graduates, following dentistry and pharmacy.

This is a divisive issue if ever there was one. On the one hand Hertford, formerly known as Hatfield Poly if you are wondering, is probably under pressure for funding and wants bums on seats. The large optical employers will be delighted with the prospects of more optometry graduates and the likely effect on salaries.