Rebecca Evans, Deputy Minister for Agriculture & Fisheries
This was published under the 2011 to 2016 administration of the Welsh Government
I would like to inform Members that the summary of responses to the consultation on the introduction of a table valuation system for bovine TB compensation has been published today on the Welsh Government website:
Earlier this year, the Welsh Government asked for views on the introduction of a system that would base TB compensation payments on average market prices for pre-determined cattle categories, rather than individual on-farm valuations. The consultation ran for 12 weeks and 70 responses were received from a range of organisations, businesses and individuals who set out their views on the proposals.
I believe that the level of TB compensation is an issue of upmost importance for farmers and that any changes to the existing system will need to strike a balance between compensating farmers fairly for the loss of their animals and protecting taxpayers’ interests.
I am considering the responses carefully. I have also asked my officials to consider the consultation responses in detail and provide me with options on a way forward. I will make a further statement on this matter following summer recess.