BADGER CULLS are to be extended to five new areas of England – including Devon and Cornwall – in a bid to control bovine tuberculosis.

But despite supporting the principle of culling, vets have spoken out against the continued use of controlled shooting, arguing that the method had been given several years to prove itself as both effective and humane, but had failed to do so.

British Veterinary Association president Sean Wensley said: “BVA recognises the need to control the wildlife reservoir of disease as part of a comprehensive strategy to eradicate bovine TB. Therefore, control measures in cattle must be accompanied by simultaneous and coordinated control measures in badgers and susceptible farmed species.

“For these reasons, BVA supports the wider roll-out of culling to carefully selected areas where badgers are regarded as a significant contributor to the high incidence of bovine TB in cattle, through the use of cage trapping and shooting only. However, we do not support the continued use of controlled shooting as part of the badger control policy.”

A Defra spokesperson said: “Natural England is currently considering applications for further badger control licences as part of the usual licencing process.

“England has the highest incidence of TB in Europe and that is why we are taking strong action to deliver our 25-year strategy to eradicate the disease and protect the future of our dairy and beef industries.

“Badger control in areas where TB is rife is one part of our long-term plan, which also includes strengthening cattle testing and movement controls and improving bio-security on farm and when trading.

“This comprehensive approach has worked overseas and is supported by the government and Defra chief scientist and leading vets. There is no set date for when the outcome of the badger control licence applications will be announced. We are not giving a running commentary on licencing," he added.