Welsh Lib Dems back final go ahead for badger cull in Wales

12.00.00am GMT Wed 13th Jan 2010

Kirsty Williams, leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats and Mick Bates, Welsh Lib Dem Shadow Minister for Rural Affairs , have welcomed the final go-ahead for a badger cull in Wales.

Kirsty Williams said:

"The Welsh Lib Dems welcome this final go ahead to combat bovine TB infections in Wales. We have long been concerned about the increase in the numbers of cows being culled as a result of this disease.

"For many farmers, the emotional and financial strain can be too much and I'm glad the that Welsh government is taking this issue seriously."

Mick Bates, Shadow Minister for Rural Affairs said:

"This is a welcomed move by the farming community in Wales. Bovine TB is a major threat to farmers and animal keepers across Wales. Thousands of cattle are killed each year. Without controlling this highly infectious disease in wildlife, this will continue.

"While we understand the sensitivities surrounding the issue, we welcome the good work that has been carried out to include all stakeholders in this process.

"Over the last 10 years the farming industry has been rocked by animal disease. It has been estimated that in 2007 over £14m was spent on compensation for TB which is a huge waste of our resources.

"This policy in Wales contrasts with what is a chaotic policy of bovine TB control in England where a pilot vaccination programme has been agreed to look at the practicality of catching and vaccinating badgers. A program of vaccines, regular testing and a pilot cull of badgers, as recommended by the Government's former chief scientist, Sir David King, and the Environment Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Select Committee, would be far more effective in reducing the rates of bovine TB.

"This disease does not respect borders, so it is vital that we have the same control measures on each side of the border if we are to eradicate TB across the UK. I know that my Lib Dem colleagues in Westminster are putting pressure on the Secretary of State to enforce a pilot cull in England to help eradicate this infectious disease."