Vets Welcome High Court Decision On Targeted Badger Cull In Wales

Veterinary associations have welcomed the High Court ruling that the Welsh Assembly Government’s decision to implement a targeted badger cull to tackle bovine tuberculosis is lawful following a Judicial Review called by the Badger Trust. Commenting on the verdict, Professor Bill Reilly, President of the British Veterinary Association, said: “The BVA and BCVA welcome the outcome of the Judicial Review which means that the Welsh Assembly Government’s important work to control and eradicate bovine tuberculosis can go ahead. “This is a highly emotive issue and we understand that many people will be disappointed with the decision, but it is essential that a wide range of measures are employed to tackle this devastating disease and we believe that should include a targeted cull of badgers.” John Blackwell, Senior Vice President of the British Cattle Veterinary Association, (BCVA) added: “We have strongly supported the Welsh Assembly Government’s TB Eradication Order because it combines strong measures to tackle the disease in both cattle and wildlife. We are therefore pleased that the court has declared the Order is lawful. “We will be watching the outcomes of the measures in Wales under the Order closely and hope that, if successful, these measures will be replicated in other areas of the UK.”

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