The TB24c authorises the general movement of bovine animals to a licensed slaughterhouse, allowing TB-restricted keepers to send cattle directly, or through an approved TB slaughter gathering, to an approved slaughterhouse in England and Wales.
TB24c licenced movements do not require animals to have had a negative TB skin test within the last 90 days, allowing for continued access and fluidity within the supply chain for TB-restricted holdings.
There is no requirement to record the ear tag numbers of cattle moving to slaughter under this licence. However, all movements must be reported via BCMS (British Cattle Movement Service) or ScotEID as required under movement conditions.
‘Common-sense approach’
The NFU has welcomed the increased flexibility while maintaining bio secure routes to slaughter by issuing a TB24c, which will be beneficial in lowering administration, resource and costs during a TB breakdown for TB-restricted cattle keepers, private vets and the APHA.
Responding to the news, NFU Livestock Board chair David Barton welcomed the APHA’s “common-sense approach in extending the validity of the general licence for bTB-restricted cattle movements to slaughter throughout a TB breakdown”.
“The simplified process and removal of pre-movement testing will help ease pressures on all parties, providing greater flexibility for producers sending TB-restricted cattle to slaughter.
“The simplified process and removal of pre-movement testing will help ease pressures on all parties.”
NFU Livestock Board chair David Barton
“We are pleased with the APHA’s ongoing efforts to deliver positive change to existing processes and I look forward to continuing collaborative working in the GB calf strategy bTB subgroup.”
Previous licence still valid
The Tb24c licence replaces the previously issued TB24b licences.
However, all current Tb24b licences will remain valid until their expiry date, with continued compliance with the licence conditions.
Operators of approved TB slaughter gatherings in England and Wales will be notified by the APHA of this change in licensing, which came into force from 30 September 2024.
More information can be found on the TB Hub and GOV.UK, which will be updated in due course.
