Written - Skanda Vale

I am making this statement to inform you of my decision in respect of the bovine TB position at the Skanda Vale Community near Carmarthen.

You will be aware from my previous statement (25 June 2007) that Shambo, a bullock at the Skanda Vale Community, who had previously shown an inconclusive result to the tuberculin skin test, tested positive on 27 April. Also, that further testing of the Community’s herd, carried out on 4 and 5 June, has shown a worrying pattern of further potentially infected cattle.

I have carefully considered the Community's views on the matter, and the other representations made to me, in particular the meeting that officials have had with the Community, their legal and veterinary representatives and some members of the wider Hindu Community. I am therefore acutely aware of the strength of feeling there is in relation to this matter and of the Community's request to continue to look after this bullock.

However, I have concluded that in order to protect both human and animal health, which includes other TB susceptible  animals at the Community, it is necessary to take measures to eliminate (as opposed to reduce or minimise) the risk of transmission of TB from this bullock. I have decided therefore that putting down the bullock is the only means of completely eliminating the risk.

The Community do have the option of seeking a judicial review of this decision. If a claim for judicial review is made, the Welsh Assembly Government is of course prepared to cooperate fully with such an application.

I have carefully considered all aspects and believe that it is time to act to eliminate the risks of transmission to other animals and humans. We want to work together with members of the Community to implement the decision so that we can minimise the distress to the bullock, Shambo.