We must use all the tools in our toolbox to tackle Bovine TB

Speaking in Parliament this morning Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds MP has called for greater action to tackle Bovine TB across farming communities in Wales.

The debate this morning took place in Westminster Hall and was focused on the Government's policy on TB in cattle and badgers.

Following the debate, Jane is seeking reassurances that action is being taken to draw up a long term plan outbreaks of the disease.

Commenting she said:

"Bovine TB still casts a dark shadow over affected farming communities, with 12,000 cattle slaughtered in Wales alone last year.

"There are over 250,000 dairy cows across Wales and they form a key backbone of our agricultural economy. With more than 700 new cases of TB in herds last year alone we need to ensure we're doing everything we can to control this deadly disease.

“I agree with NFU Cymru that we must use all the tools in our toolbox to tackle Bovine TB, including greater levels of vaccinations and targeted culls to ensure we contain this devastating disease.

"The Welsh Government now needs to develop a long term strategy to do this and ensure future outbreaks of TB are contained and eradicated swiftly."

A recall petition has opened to decide if a Tory MP convicted for a false expenses claim will keep his seat.

Chris Davies tried to split the cost of photographs between two office budgets by faking invoices , when he could have claimed the amount by other means. Brecon and Radnorshire voters wanting to sign the petition will be able to do so until Thursday 20 June in six locations in the constituency. A by-election will be held if 10% of the electorate - 5,303 voters - sign. Mr Davies would be able to contest a by-election, if one takes place. House of Commons Speaker John Bercow confirmed the recall petition last month , after Mr Davies was given a community order of 50 hours unpaid work and a £1,500 fine, at Southwark Crown Court. In a statement, Mr Davies has apologised to his constituents for "making such an error", saying he very much hopes to continue serving Brecon and Radnorshire. Constituents can sign the petition at venues in Llandrindod Wells, Brecon, Presteigne, Ysytradgynlais, Hay-on-Wye and Crickhowell. Apart from Spring Bank ...

Lib Dems Propose New Bill to Protect Welsh Farmers

The Liberal Democrats have proposed new legislation to protect Welsh farmers from being undercut by food trade deals that do not meet the UK’s environment and animal welfare standards. The plans, set out in a private member’s bill from Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Rural Affairs Tim Farron MP, would require the government’s Trade and Agriculture Commission to assess the impact of any new trade deal on UK farmers, and guarantee that MPs had the final say on trade deals initiated by the government. This would include an assessment of the impact of new trade deals on farming communities in each region and nation of the UK. Farron’s Bill comes after concern was raised by farmers unions and the Welsh Liberal Democrats that the Government’s new trade deal with Australia will not include a Welsh-specific impact assessment. Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds MS and Liberal Democrat Rural Affairs Spokesperson Tim Farron MP Commenting on his...

Welsh Lib Dems voice support for Flintshire lagoon plan

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