Britain’s strategy to eradicate bovine tuberculosis (TB) in cattle is at risk of collapse unless the government acts with greater urgency and invests more funding, according to leading scientists.
Bovine TB remains one of the most destructive livestock diseases in the UK, creating deep divisions between farmers and wildlife groups due to the controversial use of badger culls. While the government has pledged to phase out culling by 2029 in favour of badger vaccination, the long-term goal of eliminating the disease in English cattle herds by 2038 is under threat.
A new scientific review has warned that the government must accelerate the rollout of badger vaccination programmes and tighten infection control measures on farms if the 2038 target is to remain achievable.
Sir Charles Godfray, who led the independent review commissioned by the government, stressed that early investment is essential. He argued that while public finances are under pressure, effective TB control now would ultimately save money and protect livelihoods in the future.
The scale of the crisis is stark. In the past decade, more than 274,000 cattle in England have been compulsorily slaughtered due to TB, while over 230,000 badgers have been culled since 2013. Last year alone, compensation for culled cattle reached nearly £23 million.
High-profile farmers have also been affected. In July, broadcaster Jeremy Clarkson revealed that his farm had been struck by TB, describing the devastation it caused.
Genetic studies show that most cattle contract TB from within their own herds, although wildlife and the movement of infected livestock remain key sources of transmission.
The government’s long-term strategy hinges on two major developments: scaling up badger vaccination and deploying a cattle vaccine. However, scientists warn that significant logistical challenges remain. Catching enough badgers for vaccination is proving difficult, while biosecurity and testing on farms must be strengthened to stop the spread of disease between herds.
Professor James Wood of the University of Cambridge, who contributed to the review, said cattle vaccination offers huge potential but urged ministers to accelerate progress. He stressed that vaccination could play a vital role in reducing transmission and protecting herds across England.
Responding to the review, Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradication. He highlighted that 2024 marked a record year for badger vaccinations and confirmed that a new Badger Vaccinator Field Force will be launched in 2025. He also pointed to the £40 million already invested in vaccine research alongside the Scottish and Welsh governments.
A revised national strategy to eliminate bovine TB is expected to be published next year.
