British army may be asked to cull animals

British soldiers could be used to cull wild animals as British government officials continue efforts to combat the foot-and-mouth outbreak.

Talks have begun with the British army over the use of troops to cull wild pigs in East Anglia.

The new move to contain the disease comes from Britain's chief veterinary officer Mr Jim Scudamore.

British agriculture Minister Mr Nick Brown says the total number of cases has risen to 183 and said up to 500,000 sheep due to start lambing could face slaughter.

The animals, currently being kept in winter quarters, will need to be moved for welfare reasons and to free space for cattle during the spring. But he said transporting them to other farms could create an unacceptable risk of infecting other sites.

PA