Call for stronger action on Bluetongue
It comes amid funding being announced by the Government for Devon farmers
Farmers in Devon are facing the dual challenge of drought alongside the growing issue of Bluetongue, a livestock disease affecting the region.
While the Government's announcement of a £65 million funding package to support farmers in England has been cautiously welcomed, questions linger about its source and impact on existing farming support.
Devon County Council has highlighted Bluetongue as a growing concern that wasn't addressed during the Prime Minister's recent visit to the South West.
Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, has urged ministers to provide urgent support for Bluetongue, suggesting actions including quicker testing and better communication with farmers.
Reflecting on a past outbreak in France, Cottle-Hunkin suggested free vaccine supplies as a possible support measure, arguing for Government intervention to protect farming businesses.
She said: “Any additional support for farmers facing drought and extreme weather is welcome, particularly after such a challenging summer.
“However, it appears this £65 million is being found through reprioritisation within Defra’s existing farming budget rather than being genuinely new funding. Farmers will want to see the detail and understand what is being reduced elsewhere to pay for it.
“Farmers across Devon are under pressure from more than one direction. Alongside the dry weather and wildfire risk, many are now dealing with the very real impact of Bluetongue on their livestock and their businesses.
“France has shown that a Government can take decisive action when livestock disease threatens farming communities. We need to see that same level of seriousness here.
“We need stronger action on Bluetongue, including faster testing, better communication, reliable access to vaccines, financial support for affected businesses and consideration of practical options for the safe disposal of dead stock.
"The Government must work with the industry to tackle the immediate challenges and put in place a long-term plan that gives farmers confidence for the future, while ensuring animal welfare remains at the heart of the response.
“Our farmers produce food, support rural jobs and care for the countryside. They are resilient, but they cannot be expected to face these challenges alone.”
Devon County Council advocates for practical, financial and veterinary support to tackle Bluetongue and prepare for future livestock disease threats.
The council says the drought support package could help some farming businesses if delivered quickly, but ministers need to be transparent about how it will be funded and ensure that other important areas of agricultural support are not weakened as a result.