Bovine TB
04 November 2003
"While welcoming the fact that at last we are getting some interim results out of the trial, we are somewhat concerned that the reactive part of the trial has been associated with a local increase in the incidence of bovine TB. The BVA supports a scientific approach based on full statistical analysis of the data available and while we do of course accept the ISG's interpretation, today's Ministerial statement raises a number of questions.
"We trust, for instance, that the ISG will have considered the efficiency of implementation of trial protocols, local cattle movements, perturbation effects within the badger population and the role of other local wildlife with respect to the interim results. We will therefore wish to study the data for ourselves at the earliest opportunity.
"In the meantime we support the continuance of the rest of the trial and encourage Defra to fully implement all aspects of the short-term bovine TB control strategy and speed the development of the long-awaited long-term strategy."
Notes for Editors:
1. For further information please contact Chrissie Nicholls or Helena Cotton in the BVA Press Office on 020 7636 6541; chrissien@bva.co.uk; helenac@bva.co.uk
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