Farmer Compensation for Cattle with Suspected Bovine TB

Cow with Calf in Barn

I share the concerns of local farmers that the level of compensation they receive when one of their cows is compulsorily destroyed due to suspected Bovine TB infection does not reflect the market value of the animal. This is leaving farmers, particularly those with high value breeds, out of pocket.

I have raised this issue numerous times with the Government, pressing for compensation levels to be increased, having:

  • Met with the then Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
  • Asked an oral question to the then Minister for Farming, Fisheries and Food
  • Asked two written questions (here and here)
  • Met with the current Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries
  • Organised for the Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries to visit a local farm to discuss this with an affected local resident in more detail

I have since remained in contact with the Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries and officials to press the need for change.