A letter to the Times about their badger cull and bovine TB coverage

Sir

As an avid follower of sport I have long admired Simon Barnes sporting journalism. But his ‘The farmers are wrong’ commentary (The Times, September 18) was both offensive to farmers and badly misguided.

Farmers have no generic blood lust that defies all science, but have through the centuries been disciples to and early adopters of science. However, as we all know even the best science needs interpretation; and ‘yes’ leading scientists including Professor Sir David King (HMG Chief Scientist 2000-2008) believe that the science supports targeted culling of badgers as part in a range of measures necessary to control bTB in cattle.

The coalition government’s decision to consult on how best to tackle this ghastly disease is, of course, controversial, but also brave. It is not an easy option for the Government or the farming industry.

In Mr Barnes’ other journalistic role his misguided reporting of this issue would be akin to advocating Wayne Rooney as a lifestyle role model to my young sons.

NFU President Peter Kendall
Agriculture House
Stoneleigh Park
Warwickshire
CV8 2TZ

02476 858686