Benn unveils UK bluetongue plan

DEFRA Secretary Hilary Benn has published a UK plan for bluetongue vaccination over the months ahead.

He confirmed that the approach will be voluntary and that farmers will be able to purchase vaccine from Defra.

Speaking at the NFU conference he said: "Having seen all the terrible damage bluetongue has done we know that vaccination offers the best hope that's why we are the first country dealing with the outbreak in northern Europe that has placed an order – for 22.5 million doses.

"The deal is the Government pays for the order up front and the full cost is then recovered as the vaccine is used by farmers."

Benn said the voluntary approach will be taken because 'that's what you said you wanted'.

He said it will allow vaccination to go ahead as quickly as possible.