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Defra has recently written to all AFU operators inviting comments on its proposal. The full letter is available at the bottom of this article.

This proposal is the outcome of an NFU led workstream through the GB calf strategy, to ensure the long-term success of TB licensed unit pathways, as an integral part of the TB eradication strategy.

This consultation has now closed.

NFU response

We welcomed the opportunity respond to this consultation on behalf of members and support Defra's proposals. 

However, we continue to stress the importance of working to develop further improvements to the current policy, to build resilience into the sector as we continue to aim for TB free status by 2038.

Consistent approach

Our response reiterates that bTB policy replies on a proportionate and consistent approach from the APHA (Animal and Plant Health Agency). 

We continue to call for the APHA to be appropriately resourced to ensure that TB licensed units are administered, monitored and enhanced for the benefit of individual businesses, the farming industry and the TB eradication strategy. 

Future work

Building on this response, we continue to ask for a holistic approach to TB policy and particularly TB licensed units. 

We suggest Defra reviews and simplifies the movement licensing process, such as introducing general licenses for calves moving into AFUs from OTFW holdings. This could reduce the administrative burden without increasing risk of disease transmission.

We also propose that entry requirements for TB isolation units are reviewed. 

And we suggest that the use of the pre-movement calf exemption (for AFU entry) is updated to enable a proportionate threshold for the level of risk these animals present.

90-day threshold analysis

We ask that Defra builds on provisional findings that a 90-day threshold would ensure a continued high level of disease surveillance, while removing a substantial barrier for the industry to move youngstock at the most appropriate time for the animal.

This regulatory change would enable producers to optimise the health and welfare of the animals involved. 

It would also provide wider environmental benefits through moving young animals at the optimal point, maximising efficiencies, which go hand in hand with our ambition to achieve net zero. 

Read: NFU consultation response – AFU pre movement test removal