BVA calls for modified and expanded approach to badger cull

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has reaffirmed its support for the badger cull programme in England, while calling for the scheme to be expanded and refined.

In light of results from two years of culling in the two pilot areas of West Somerset and West Gloucestershire, the association said it no longer supports the continued use of controlled shooting as part of the badger control policy.

Instead, it believes that the government should revert to the method of cage trapping and shooting only, which has been tested more extensively and can deliver a "safe, humane and effective" cull.

Despite the dissatisfaction with the methodology, the BVA remains adamant that the badger cull should be expanded nationwide as part of a wider set of steps to prevent the damaging spread of bovine tuberculosis. 

Other key methods include surveillance and control in cattle, biosecurity, badger vaccination, surveillance and control in other non-bovines, and research and development of new treatments and diagnostic tools.

BVA president John Blackwell said: "It is essential that the next government commits to a comprehensive strategy that employs all available measures."