GOVERNMENT'S DECISION ON BOVINE T.B. 'A DISASTER', SAY MPs

6.00.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 7th Jul 2008

The Government's decision to do nothing to address the growing crisis of Bovine T.B. in the livestock industry in Cornwall was described as a 'disaster' by local Liberal Democrat MPs.

After various trials, studies and investigations, Hilary Benn MP, Secretary of State for DEFRA, accepted that the incidence of the disease is increasing, yet he ducked the decision to announce a cull of badgers in infected areas because it would be generally unpopular in the country. Despite acknowledging that his decision would cause great anger amongst the farming community, Mr Benn offered no additional support.

Colin Breed, Liberal Democrat MP for South East Cornwall and Dan Rogerson, Liberal Democrat MP for North Cornwall, and a member of the EFRA Select Committee which produced a report on Bovine T.B., both attended the Statement in the House of Commons.

Afterwards, Dan Rogerson MP commented:

"The Government is presiding over a disaster for the rural economy. Farmers have looked to the Government for action and have been clearly let down.

"Inaction will mean a continuing cull of cattle and a huge social and economic cost to the country.

Falmouth and Camborne MP Julia Goldsworthy added:

"Farmers have been waiting for years for this research to be completed, after being assured by the Government that it would act on the basis of the scientific evidence.

"Today's announcement flies in the face of all the evidence and will leave a bitter taste in farmers' mouths.