Defra dismisses claims it ignored scientific advice in new badger cull row

Report accuses Government of issuing 17 cull licences despite leading Natural England scientist saying the action could not be 'justified'

clock • 2 min read
A national newspaper has claimed Defra issued 17 new badger cull licences against advice from a leading Government scientist
Image:

A national newspaper has claimed Defra issued 17 new badger cull licences against advice from a leading Government scientist

Defra has refuted claims made by the national media that it has issued a raft of new badger cull licences openly flouting guidance from its scientific advisor that further culling could ‘not be justified'....

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

 

More on Farm Life

Family pays tribute to teenager killed on farm

Family pays tribute to teenager killed on farm

19-year-old, Devon-based contractor died in burst-pipe incident

Nick Irving
clock 25 March 2026 • 1 min read
'Reintroduction of lynx is cruel and unnecessary', Blackface Sheep Breeders' Association warns

'Reintroduction of lynx is cruel and unnecessary', Blackface Sheep Breeders' Association warns

Following the consultation into the reintroduction of the lynx in the Kielder forest and now its proposal in the Highlands, the Association have put their case across warning of its potential damaging impacts

clock 24 March 2026 • 3 min read
OPINION: 'Price hikes can feel especially relentless'

OPINION: 'Price hikes can feel especially relentless'

Head of arable Ash Ellwood ponders fuel delivery challenges as Middle East conflict continues

clock 23 March 2026 • 2 min read