Will the Cabinet Secretary make a statement on the 27 per cent rise in the number of Welsh cattle culled in 2024 compared to 2023 due to bovine TB?
The annual number of animals slaughtered for bovine TB control fluctuates. The rise in 2024 is largely due to increased use of the high-sensitivity gamma interferon blood test, which complements the skin test to better detect TB infection within herds. This test aims to lower infection rates and prevent disease spread and recurring herd breakdowns.
The higher volume of gamma testing, combined with more cattle testing positive, has led to more animals culled in 2024. Although this increases slaughter numbers temporarily, it is part of a strategy to reduce bovine TB infections in the long term.