WEST Devon's MP urged the government to combat the issue of Bovine TB in the area at a recent Westminster debate.

Geoffrey Cox, MP for West Devon and Torridge, has called on the government to deliver a comprehensive and effective policy, including a cull, to tackle the spiralling incidence of Bovine TB in the constituency.

Speaking in the debate on dairy farming, Mr Cox said that he and the minister, James Paice MP, had together met farmers throughout the constituency and that the minister was well aware of the problems facing local farmers as a result of Bovine TB.

Mr Cox said: 'The minister has seen for himself the damaging affects of Bovine TB and the viability of a limited cull in intensely affected hotspot areas. It is time for this government to do the right thing and allow for the limited, targeted and humane cull of badgers in the worst affected areas.'

Mr Cox said he did not doubt the minister's empathy for constituents affected, but called on him to have the courage to act to deal with the issue.

The minister said a policy would be announced before the end of July.