Hello all,

It's been a while since my last update and this has been in part due to my latest dealings with the HSE regarding their investigation of the Baslow Edge herd. 

Since starting this petition I have been strongly opposed to the investigation practices and the guidance provided by the HSE which affectively left the farmer with little alternative but to destroy their herd of highland cattle based on a single complaint by a member of the public. 

I requested from the HSE all documents and files related to this matter. After a significant delay I was provided with a series of e-mails between the HSE and the Birch family, the farmers who owned the herd. Unfortunately, a number of key documents were not provided as the HSE said these were exempt from The Freedom of Information Act, notably the minutes of the meeting between the HSE and the Birches, the original online complaint by the dog walker and the notes of their investigation. 

As I have been left unhappy and frustrated at the lack of documentation provided by the HSE, I have formally requested an internal review take place in order that greater scrutiny can be applied to their investigation. I have not received any form of reply to this request. 

I was recently contacted by a member of the public who received a letter from Justin Tomlinson MP, Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work. Justin echoed the findings of the HSE and stated that the HSE has 'acted fairly and proportionately in accordance with the standards that have been agreed with the farming industry.'

It is clear therefore, that the Minister in question, rather than support this petition and that of the farming community, is instead in favour of the actions of the HSE in this matter. 

Needless to say I will continue to fight for the reversal of this decision as I believes it sets a very worrying precedent regarding the role of the HSE in affecting the livelihoods of the farming community. 

Thank you for your patience and your continuing support. 

Justin