Hello all,
It's been a while since my last update and that has been predominantly due to the HSE dragging their heels in providing me with all of their files concerning the Baslow Edge cow incident that led to the sale and slaughter of over 30 Highland cows.
I received an email concerning my FOI request. The HSE said:
Dear Mr Cowell,
Further to my email dated 25 March 2019, I am writing to advise you that it will not be possible to provide you with the information you have requested within the statutory 20 working days deadline. HSE are currently dealing with a high volume of requests at this time. However, please be assured that your request is being dealt with as a high priority.
You have requested copies of “all notes and files” in relation to HSE’s investigation into incidents involving cattle on Baslow Edge. I am currently in consultation with all HSE parties that were involved with the investigation ensuring that I retrieve all the relevant information to enable me to respond to your request fully. This is taking a considerable amount of time owing to staff availability.
I am unable to provide you with a precise timescale for disclosure, but will endeavour to respond to you within the next three weeks. I will keep you updated on the progress of the case.
As you can see, the full details concerning the HSE report could still be weeks away sadly.
In the meantime, there has recently been a flurry of resurged interest in this matter due to Highland cows reappearing on Baslow Edge with many members of public commenting on social media that commonsense has prevailed and that they were glad to see that the farmer had in some way defied the HSE. This is not the case.
About 15 young calves have indeed been placed back on Baslow Edge but they were the remaining herd, which had been wintered in a barn by Alex Birch and have been allowed back on the Edge in the short-term only. The HSE had no issue with young calves being on public access land as they are seen as little threat. Unfortunately, the sight of these placid animals will be shortlived since they will need to removed from the moorland at the end of Summer. After that, there will be no more Highland cattle on Baslow Edge.
The fight is not yet over. I can assure you that I will take this as far as possible in order for the HSE to look again at the conclusions they made, to reverse their decision and to allow Highland cattle back on Baslow Edge for the good of the herd, for the environment and for you, the thousands of supporters who signed this petition. Thank you!
Lastly, particular thanks must go to Carol Platts for her support and granting me the use of her photography of the beautiful calves.
Justin