National TB conference to focus on industry collaboration

Divisions between policymakers and the farming industry on bovine tuberculosis will be set aside for a day at a national conference in November to focus on collaboration and how the disease can be eradicated from UK herds.

It is the second conference hosted by the TB Advisory Service (TBAS) and has been described by the organisers as a “crucial event” for al groups affected by the disease “to focus on how we can achieve a TB-free future as a collective”.

Speakers will include Defra minister Lord Benyon, who will give an overview of the progress in its first decade of the TB eradication scheme for England.

See also: Sound science in bovine TB policy needed, says NFU

Jude McCann of the Farming Community Network (FCN) will talk about the support the charity provides to those affected by bovine TB.

The FCN is undertaking research to explore the emotional, financial and physical effects of a TB herd breakdown and the long-term ramifications for the farmer, farming family and business.

“The hope is that the findings from this research will also offer insights into farmers’ experiences of government policies to control and eradicate TB, so we can work together across the industry to help improve support to those at risk or affected by a TB breakdown,” said Dr McCann.

NFU deputy president Tom Bradshaw will be joining a Q&A session in the morning and NFU Cymru deputy president Abi Reader will be providing the closing summary for the event.

Conference instigator, veterinary consultant Sarah Tomlinson, hopes that “tangible ways” can be found for the industry to work together on disease eradication.

“There’s more to be gained from collaborating as we are going to be able to better support farmers at every opportunity to reduce and ultimately put an end to TB outbreaks,” she said.

The event will be held at the Sixways Stadium, Worcester, on 29 November. NFU members receive a £15 discount.