Record 27% rise in TB cattle slaughterings in Wales

A dramatic 27% increase in the number of cattle culled in Wales due to bovine TB in 2024 underlines the urgent need for a new approach to managing the disease, according to NFU Cymru.

The latest figures from Defra reveal that more than 13,000 cattle were slaughtered in Wales in 2024, marking the largest number culled in a 12-month period since records began.

This significant rise from 2023 – from 10,299 to 13,034 TB cattle slaughterings – reflects a growing challenge for Welsh cattle farmers who continue to face the severe impacts of bovine TB.

See also: One year on… how has Welsh farm policy changed?

NFU Cymru president Aled Jones described the figures as “sobering”, adding that the continued destruction of cattle was devastating farming families across Wales.

“The scars left behind by bovine TB are numerous and can be seen running deep across the Welsh cattle industry,” he said.

“We cannot continue to slaughter this many cattle each year because of this disease.

“If the next generation are to have any hope of farming in Wales without the threat of bovine TB, then something needs to change.”

The statistics show that 12,040 of the cattle culled in Wales in 2024 tested positive for bovine TB – the highest such figure ever recorded in Wales.

While TB herd incidence remained unchanged compared to 2023, herd prevalence – the percentage of herds that were not officially TB-free – increased by 0.1%, further highlighting the ongoing struggle against the disease.

NFU Cymru has vowed to keep pushing for “meaningful change” and is calling on the Welsh government to implement a comprehensive strategy that addresses all aspects of bovine TB transmission.

Newly formed groups

Mr Jones stressed the importance of the Welsh government’s newly formed TB Programme Board and the Technical Advisory Group in tackling the issue.

“We appreciate the need for patience, but we cannot lose sight of the farm businesses across Wales that continue to suffer because of this disease,” he said.

Mr Jones also highlighted the importance of the Welsh government taking a more proactive approach and making the eradication of bovine TB a central focus.

“We continue to call for a comprehensive TB eradication strategy that deals with this disease wherever it exists,” he added.

Welsh government response

The Welsh government said it remains determined to eradicate bovine TB in Wales, and recognises the impact of the disease on farms, farmers and their families. 

“We’ve listened to the concerns raised over different aspects of bovine TB and will continue to work in partnership with the industry, as set out in our five-year delivery plan,” said a spokesperson.

“This includes the work of the TB Technical Advisory Group,  who have already provided their expert advice on specific topics. As a result, we have made two significant changes to our policy approach. 

“The new, farmer-led TB Programme Board is also now in place, and both groups are currently considering a forward work plan and are keen to consider all aspects.”