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Cull stops early in Gloucestershire
Target deemed unlikely to be met during extension period

Badger culling in Gloucestershire was stopped ahead of schedule on Saturday (November 30), as it appeared unlikely that targets would be met.

An eight-week extension of the cull licence was granted by Natural England on October 23, after shooters fell short of their target during the initial cull period, removing just 30 per cent of the estimated badger population.

With the aim of effectively reducing bovine TB in cattle, the cull target was to remove 70 per cent of badgers from the area.

While the extended license was due to end on December 18, the decision was made to cease culling at noon last Saturday, after discussions between Natural England, the National Farmers Union and the cull company.

Any significant reduction in badger numbers over the coming weeks was deemed unlikely, based on the declining amount seen by contractors.

A pilot cull in Somerset was also granted a three-week extension after 60 per cent of the badger population was removed. Following the extension period, Defra reported that a total of 940 badgers were killed - representing 65 per cent of the estimated population.

It is expected that parliament will be updated today on the total number of badgers that were killed during the extension period in Gloucestershire.

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.