Defra forms new bTB advisory group
Defra has announced the formation of a new Government-industry group that will offer advice on bovine TB policy.
John Cross, current chairman of the English Beef and Lamb Executive (EBLEX), will head the TB Eradication Advisory Subgroup for England (TBAEG) - which will replace the TB Eradication Group for England (TBEG) formed in 2008.
TBEAG will feature new members and encompass more representatives with scientific expertise and wildlife and conservation knowledge, as well as a wider range of those with farming experience, who will join TBEG's current farming and veterinary representation and sit alongside representatives from Defra and its agencies.
The new group will be a subgroup of the recently established Animal Health and Welfare Board for England, which advises Defra on policy.
On Monday and Tuesday (June 25 and 26) Defra's decision to sanction two pilot badger culls in England will be challenged in a Judicial Review, brought by the Badger Trust. A ruling against the Government or a subsequent appeal against the decision by either side could delay the Gloucestershire and Somerset pilot beyond the intended ‘early autumn’ start date.
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