Bovine TB research, Council-owned farms, Warm autumn

New research carried out by Exeter University suggests that intensive farming may contribute to an increase in bovine TB in areas where incidence is already high. The study tracked the disease on more than 500 farms in the south west of England, where incidence of bovine TB is highest. It identified a series of factors, including herd size, which increased the chances of the disease being present on a farm including existence of hedges, and whether maize is grown on farm. It defined small farms as those with fewer than fifty cattle, and medium as those with up to a hundred and fifty.
We also hear from BBC and Met Office weather presenter Peter Gibbs what effect this unseasonably warm November might have on livestock.
And what future for council owned farms - are they a money-making asset, or something to be sold off by cash-strapped authorities?
Presented by Felicity Evans and produced by Sally Challoner.