Farmers' fury after Hillary Benn says no to badger cull

Hillary Benn, the Rural Affairs Secretary, is set to face a wave of protests from farmers after deciding against a widespread cull of badgers to control TB in cattle.

The minister had delayed an announcement for at least two weeks, as it is believed he was attempting to avoid the decision being known during the Royal Agricultural Show at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, fearing a backlash from farmers.

At least 150 landowners in the South West alone are believed to be ready to go to the High Court to seek a judicial review of his decision. A massive protest by farmers nation-wide is now expected next week.

Peter Kendall, President of the National Farmers Union, said today: "This is devastating for the farming families whose lives and businesses are being ruined by TB in cattle.

"It is also disastrous for UK farming, as we lost 28,000 cattle last year and 13,500 in the first four months of this year, which has the potential to reach a total of 40,000 by the end of the year.