Infected badgers are responsible for spreading TB in cattle the National Beef Association claimed today.
"While there is some cattle-to-cattle spread we maintain avoidable infection, and re-infection from diseased badgers remains the single most important source of TB," said Association spokesman George Richardson.
"While we agree the transfer of infected cattle is a likely cause of new outbreaks in previously TB-free locations we are sure the relentless expansion of TB 'hotspots', which accounts for the bulk of the 18% increase in TB incidence each year, is the result of regular cattle contact with infected badgers.
"The cattle-to-cattle contribution to TB spread must be measured against the level of infection passed on to cattle from other animal sources so that their relative importance can be accurately assessed."
Mr Richardson was responding to the Independent Scientific Group's recent report on badgers and bovine TB.
"The ISG is correct to point out there is some cattle-to-cattle spread.
"We maintain, however, that avoidable infection, and re-infection from diseased badgers remains the single most important source."
Mr Richardson said the Association would like to know the exact number of new cases attributed to cattle-to-cattle spread as a result of post Foot and Mouth restocking.
"Information confirming the precise contribution of more recent cattle-to-cattle transmission, which would help to identify the exact proportion of incidents that can be attributed to it, would be welcome too.
"In the meantime we would advise against any organisation assuming cattle movement is a primary factor in recent TB spread until independently approved information confirming, not just single incidents but also the precise ratio of its contribution to overall disease spread, has been made available."
Researchers in the Irish Republic recently reported that badger extermination is not a viable way to control bovine tuberculosis.
While half of the badger population in the south has been slaughtered 6.5% of Irish cattle herds were still under TB restriction.
