The NFU Cheshire team will ask councillors to reject the motion to only vaccinate so that council farmer tenants can continue to have the freedom to decide how best to protect their own businesses. In addition the NFU will also ask the council to consult with its tenants on how best it can support them further in the eradication of bovine TB.
The National Farmers’ Union represents 55,000 farmers and growers across England and Wales and supports the eradication of this terrible disease, utilising all of the available options. Many farmers already take steps to protect their herds from the disease risks posed by badgers through biosecurity measures, movement controls, testing and controlling the disease in wildlife. Whilst some of the controls applied are statutory many are voluntary, much in the same way in which farmers manage other diseases on their farms. It is vital that farmers have the freedom to choose the best course of action for their own business from all of the tools available in order to remain competitive and continue to produce food to the high standard that we are used to.
NFU Cheshire County Chairman Richard Blackburn said: “It is worrying that the council could take this choice away from our members and its own tenants by restricting them to badger vaccination only.
“The culling of badgers in line with closely monitored and rigorous licencing has demonstrated a significant reduction in TB levels. Research shows a single breakdown can cost the farmer as much as £150,000, so this reduction in new breakdowns is extremely positive news.
“To try and compare the two methods in terms of its effect on disease in cattle is impossible as the impact of vaccination is unproven and there is currently no evidence to suggest that it will have any effect on cattle, particularly in areas where TB is rife. Given the evidence we firmly believe it should be that the farmer is able to decide which method, if any, they wish to implement within their business.”