31
Deferred
Bovine TB policy changes create efficacy concerns, leaving farmers vulnerable to worsening reactors.
Conclusion
We are concerned about the future efficacy of policy changes for managing Bovine TB. The badger cull, which we understand seems to have been effective in reducing Bovine TB, has been largely terminated.47 Yet, a new cattle vaccine seems to be years away.48 This hiatus leaves farmers in a very difficult position with the prospect of TB reactors becoming worse again. Long-term strategy
Government Response Summary
The government agrees and aims for implementation by Summer 2027, committing to provide an update and examine strategic themes to strengthen long-term resilience to animal disease. This will involve a review considering ongoing negotiations and other strategic interdependencies.
Government Response
Deferred
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
9.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: Summer 2027 9.2 The department will provide an update on progress with this recommendation as requested by the Committee, noting that the negotiations for a Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) agreement with the EU, and timescales involved, will need to be integrated into development of this work. The department will examine strategic themes to determine how to strengthen long-term resilience to animal disease. 9.3 The review will take account of other strategic interdependencies such as the livestock ID and traceability reforms, APHA’s systems reforms, upgrades to the National Biosecurity Centre, Veterinary Workforce and Vaccine Availability strategies and the UK Biological Security Strategy.
Source
Committee
Public Accounts Committee
Report
52nd Report - Resilience to threats from animal disease
05 Nov 2025
HC 885
Addressee Bodies
HM Treasury
Timeline
Recommendation age
0.7 yr
Report published
05 Nov 2025