The RSPCA is echoing the anger and dismay of top scientists provoked by a Government advisor's "outrageous and misinformed" call for a badger cull to reduce bovine TB in cattle.
Robust science has shown a cull could have disastrous consequences for cattle and badgers alike, so leading experts are shocked by the Government's stance. Recommendations directly contradicts the most rigorous scientific study ever produced on the impact of badger-culling on TB in cattle.
The Independent Scientific Group report effectively rules out a badger cull, concluding that "badger culling can make no meaningful contribution to cattle TB control in Britain".
To dismiss that and proceed with a cull would make a nonsense of the research which took almost ten years, cost the lives of more than 10,000 badgers and cost taxpayers £34 million. It would also be the worst possible option for cattle and badgers.
To help avoid a senseless badger cull, and add your voice to those of the country's eminent scientists and animal welfare experts, please contact your MP or write to the Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP, Secretary of State, Defra, Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London SW1P 3JR.
For more information - and to sign the on-line petition - visit www.rspca.org.uk/badgers.
Sally Bruce
RSPCA Regional Manager for South East Region
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