Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps she is taking to accelerate the process of TB vaccinations for cows.

The CattleBCG vaccine, when coupled with the new Detect Infected amongst Vaccinated Animals (DIVA) skin test, represents a significant advancement in bovine TB control for cattle herds.

Field trials began in June 2021, with the final planned phase now underway and due to complete by 2027. Data gathered during lab and field trials will support the Animal and Plant Health Agency’s Marketing Authorisation applications to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate and achieving international recognition. The Government is looking at all options to accelerate progress.

The Government is continuing to work at pace but will only deploy the vaccine and companion DIVA skin test when we have all the right steps in place. The aim is to deliver an effective cattle TB vaccination strategy within the next few years, helping drive down the disease burden for future generations and advance progress towards achieving Officially TB Free status for England by 2038.