A REPORT setting out the TB advisory group's advice to Defra ministers and the chief veterinary officer on the practical delivery and impacts of pre-movement testing has been published by Defra.

The group, chaired by Peter Jinman, has made a number of practical recommendations to improve the delivery of pre-movement testing in the short term, and for consideration in the longer term.

Mr Jinman said: "The group was asked by Defra to offer advice on the practical delivery and impacts of pre-movement testing. Our report, which was produced in a short time frame with the evidence available then, makes a number of recommendations which are for Government, the State Veterinary Service and industry to take forward.

"The control of bovine TB is a joint responsibility and our recommended improvements will benefit all. We support pre-movement testing as a means of reducing the risk of spread of TB through cattle movements, although we recognise the strength of concern in the industry about the costs of extending pre-movement testing to younger animals. We will continue to monitor progress on pre-movement testing and will offer further advice to Ministers and the CVO as appropriate."

Minister for animal health and welfare, Ben Bradshaw, who lives in the South West, welcomed the report.

"Pre-movement testing is an important measure for tackling TB and we want to continue to work closely with interested organisations to ensure the system works effectively. These recommendations are for consideration by both government and industry and I am looking forward to working in partnership to take this forward. We will respond to the TB advisory group in due course."