Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Jane Kennedy (Labour). It was answered by Hilary Benn (Labour) on Thursday, 29 October 2009 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Farmers (Suicides)

Question: What representations he has received on the number of suicides amongst farmers whose cattle herds are subject to bovine tuberculosis movement and testing restrictions; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: I have not received any particular representations about this, but earlier this year the Farming Crisis Network produced its sobering report on the impact of bovine TB on farming families. This showed, as we all know, that for those most seriously affected, the economic and particularly the human consequences of bovine TB are devastating. The TB eradication group for England has since met with the executive director of the FCN to discuss how TB-affected farm businesses could be better supported.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 498 c427; 296303
Session: 2008-09
Oral question type: Lead
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Related items: Deposited Paper DEP2010-0408
Thursday, 29 October 2009
Deposited papers
House of Commons
Subjects: Disease control Bovine tuberculosis
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk