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NFU committed to cull despite MP vote
Government and farmers 'remain committed' to badger cull

In light of the overwhelming vote by backbench MPs last week in favour of a motion calling for the Government to 'stop the cull', the NFU has insisted that the Government and farmers remain committed to implementing two pilot badger culls next year.

The issue of the badger cull was debated in the House of Commons last Thursday (25th October 2012) for over six hours, before MPs voted by 147 to 28 in favour of a motion to abandon the cull and implement a vaccination programme for badger and cattle, along with improved testing and biosecurity.

While the vote is not binding in terms of policy, Shadow Defra Secretary Mary Creagh called on Ministers to "respect the democratic voice of this Parliament" and "look again at the whole policy of the badger cull."

However, Farming Minister David Heath said he: "remained 'fully committed to working with the farming industry to ensure that the pilot culls can be delivered effectively, safely and humanely next summer."

The NFU echoed these sentiments, with NFU deputy president saying: "The NFU remains committed to supporting the government's TB eradication programme for England, and the inclusion of a badger cull in those areas where TB is persistent and high." 

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

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News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.