Basing policy on available evidence.

Summary

# Editorial Summary: Basing Policy on Available Evidence Nigel Gibbens, the UK's Chief Veterinary Officer, examines the evidence underlying major veterinary policy decisions, with particular emphasis on the contentious badger culling programme proposed to control bovine tuberculosis transmission. The update addresses how epidemiological data should inform large-scale interventions, alongside concurrent surveillance and control efforts for emerging diseases including Schmallenberg virus, equine infectious anaemia, and revisions to EU regulations governing pet movement across borders. Whilst the badger culling debate centres on cattle health, the broader message is pertinent to all veterinary disciplines: robust field evidence and peer-reviewed research must form the foundation of policy rather than political or economic expediency alone. For equine professionals, this editorial reinforces the importance of disease surveillance systems (particularly regarding equine infectious anaemia screening protocols) and the practical reality that international trade regulations—often shaped by epidemiological evidence—directly impact how horses move between countries. Understanding the principles behind evidence-based policy helps practitioners advocate effectively for regulations that genuinely protect animal health rather than operating under directives without scientific grounding.

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Key Findings

• •UK Chief Veterinary Officer provides policy update on badger culling as tuberculosis control measure
• •Surveillance protocols outlined for Schmallenberg virus in livestock
• •Equine infectious anaemia management strategies reviewed
• •UK position statement on EU pet import rule changes presented

Conditions Studied