Campaigns

Some proposals to address the problem of TB in dairy cattle involve killing virtually all the badgers in Herefordshire. We do not believe that there is any convincing scientific evidence to justify blaming badgers for high levels of TB or that killing them will solve the problem. For example, in trials that killed all badgers, 6 out of 7 were found to be disease-free. There is evidence that culling actually spreads the disease faster. Reducing excessive movement of cattle around the country and better testing of cattle is the real answer.

We welcome the ban on hunting with dogs and believe it is having a real positive effect on animal welfare. The stated strategy of hunts is to try to discredit the law in the hope that a future government will repeal it (Outline Strategy for the Repeal of the Hunting Act, Countryside Alliance, Autumn 2005). The Conservative Party is committed to devoting time to repealing the law, thus re-introducing not just fox hunting but also hare coursing.

We share the view of the national organisation and the British Veterinary Association that docking the tails of dogs other than for genuine medical reasons is not justified. A public poll showed 75% of people agree. We are pleased  cosmetic docking is banned, but disappointed it continues for some dogs.

We believe that using wild animals in circuses is wrong. They are often subject to repeated movement, cramped conditions, high noise levels and lack of privacy that is totally unnatural for them. To do all this in the name of entertainment is not acceptable in the 21st century.