A look at both sides of the argument .

A talk given by Robert Broadbent, a veterinary surgeon from the south west, attracted many delegates and instigated some debate at BVNA Congress last weekend.

The talk, entitled "Badgers and TB: understanding the argument", looked at both sides of the argument for and against a badger cull as a means by which to try and control bovine tuberculosis.

Handling an emotive subject with sensitivity, Robert Broadbent explored the history and development of bovine tuberculosis in Britain over the past twenty years - such as the meteoric rise from 235 cases in 1986 to 30,000 today - as well as the current legislation rendering vaccinating cattle problematic.

Referencing past trial culls, scientific research and non-scientific case studies, Mr Broadbent drew a picture of the current situation for both farmers and opposers of the cull, and went further to say that even if the problem is solved for cattle, TB will still be a significant issue for badgers.

The talk was well attended, with almost every chair taken, and provoked questions at the end from vet nurses who had experienced the effects of bovine TB in their area.

Mr Broadbent described as vet nurses as often being "caught in the middle" of the debate, and voiced his view that he believes the two sides - for and against the cull - need to work together, as they both want the same thing: healthy cattle and healthy badgers.