Team Badger issues report ahead of planned cull

On the eve of the planned badger cull, which is due to begin on June 1, a group of charities have issued a report highlighting concerns that the cull will be ineffective.

The group of around 15 charities banded together to combat the planned cull and are known collectively as Team Badger. Charities involved include the RSPCA, the Humane Society International/UK, Born Free Foundation and Brian May's Save Me.

The "Myth-busters Report" has been published by Team Badger today (May 31) to address what are felt to be inaccuracies used to justify the badger cull.

RSPCA chief executive, Gavin Grant, said: "We care about cows and badgers alike. It is time to set the record straight and tell the truth that the cull will not help the cattle or stop bovine TB."

The report argues that other countries have successfully addressed bovine TB by controlling cattle movements, and that in many cases of bovine TB badgers are not involved at all.

Responding to concerns that culling is more economical than vaccinating the badger population, Team Badger assert that the bill for the cull could reach £10-20million if plans are rolled out as planned after the six week pilot.

The report also raises the concern that many scientists believe the badger cull could make the situation even worse.

The six-week pilot badger cull is due to begin on Saturday, June 1 in Somerset and Gloucestershire. The Department for Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), has indicated that the cull could be rolled out further following the pilot.