In a recent interview, Mr Paterson said he was “bitterly disappointed” that the culls would not be widened to more counties this year. He reaffirmed his commitment to the policy, as part of the government’s 25-year strategy to eradicate the disease.
“We are delaying so that we can learn from the lessons of the pilots and move forward,” he added.
“Only if we use every tool at our disposal, including culling, will we begin to check the progress of this devastating disease. We want to see healthy cattle living alongside healthy badgers.”