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BVA response to DEFRA's measures
to control bovine TB
Editorial
Filed 27 Dec 05
©www.land-care.org.uk
The British Veterinary Association (BVA)
President Dr Freda Scott-Park described the new measures to tackle
bTB announced by Government (1) as
"steps towards regaining control
of the disease situation".
Dr Scott-Park welcomed the fact that the
Government had
"recognised that the infected badger
plays a significant role in the spread of bTB in cattle. This
was hardly surprising given that there were only two member states
within the European Community where bTB was a problem, the UK
and Ireland, which coincidentally were the only two Member States
where bTB was also a significant problem in the badger.
"For too long TB control and eradication
has been plagued by those who polarise its spread - laying full
blame on either the cow or the badger. As we have made clear previously
the BVA continues to recognise that both species are significant
animals in the spread of TB and that both must be tackled if this
disease is to be controlled and
eradicated."
Turning to the detail of the Minister's
statement Dr Scott-Park noted that
"the success of the bTB eradication
programme is dependent on farmer co-operation. While we recognise
the importance of pre-movement testing as an aid in the control
of bTB, on its own it will not stop the spread of infection. While
appreciating the necessity for allowing 12 weeks for the public
consultation on the control of badgers it would be preferable
if the measures arising out of the consultation could be introduced
at the same time as the requirement for pre-movement testing of
cattle. Also, while we can see the logic of harmonising compensation
levels for compulsory slaughter under official disease control
schemes, we recognise that many farmers are unable to insure themselves
against this devastating disease and others, who having had the
foresight to obtain insurance, have seen their cover terminated."
Dr Scott-Park concluded by stressing that
"the BVA looked forward to playing
its part in devising an effective programme for the control and
eradication of this devastating disease."
Reference
1. DEFRA (2005). Bovine TB: Autumn
announcement on bovine TB.
http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/tb/autumn/index.htm
Further reading recommended by Land-Care
 Irvine,
James 92003). TB in cattle and badgers: Zucherman report (1980)
revisited.
See TUBERCULOSIS Homepage, filed 10 Mar 03, www.land-care.org.uk
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