Deadline extended for signing TB contracts
Fewer practices in Devon and Cornwall have signed the contracts, so the original deadline has been extended to 14 May.
Veterinary practices in Devon and Cornwall have been given a three-week extension on the deadline for signing new TB testing contracts.
Earlier this week, the BVA called for the deadline to be extended as many members were concerned that the short time frame would not allow them to scrutinise the contracts.
A large number of veterinary practices in four of the five English regions have already signed the new contracts, according to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
However, uptake has been lower in Devon and Cornwall, so the original deadline of 24 April has been extended to 14 May.
The news was revealed in a letter from APHA's veterinary director Simon Hall, which was addressed to the BVA and British Cattle Veterinary Association (BCVA).
BVA's president John Blackwell welcomed the extension, saying it will give practices in Devon and Cornwall time to seek further clarification and legal advice if need be.
"The large numbers of veterinary practices signing up to the new contracts for TB testing across four of the five English regions demonstrates that the veterinary profession has prioritised delivery of TB testing for the public good, and will ensure that the fight against TB will continue without delay..." he added.
"The control of TB is most effectively delivered through nurturing strong collaboration and working relationships within the profession. The strong engagement of the veterinary profession with the new TB testing arrangements shows yet again that veterinary surgeons put their professional duties first."
Livestock keepers are being urged to stay vigilant for Bluetongue (BTV-3) following confirmation of the disease in a ewe. The case, confirmed in Staffordshire on 23 June 2026, represents the first confirmed case of infection this summer.
