Culling badgers just spreads TB (From Worcester News)

Culling badgers just spreads TB

10:04am Saturday 14th October 2006 in Read

SIR - I'd like to draw readers' attention to new research which should finally bring an end to the continuing myth surrounding badgers and the spread of bovine TB.

The National Farmers' Union has long been claiming that badgers spread TB to cattle. However, new findings by top researchers, commissioned by the Government, show that the route of infection lies much more with cattle than badgers.

It also says that culling badgers actually increases bovine TB in badger populations.

This follows recommendations from the Government's independent scientific group on bovine TB that what is needed is improved cattle controls.

Surely, David Milliband, the Environment Minister will now take this opportunity to stop the Government-sponsored badger snare trials which began back at Easter. Snares are barbaric instruments that cause unnecessary suffering and stress to badgers and other animals inadvertently caught.

JENNY BARSBY, League Against Cruel Sports.