The imminent badger cull in North Pembrokeshire must be wholly undertaken by Government agencies and not involve farmers in any way, says Preseli Pembrokeshire AM Paul Davies.

The cull has been ordered by the Welsh Assembly Government to try to halt the rapid spread of TB among cattle. It is due to start in the next few months and last up to five years.

Badgers in a 200 square kilometre patch of the county will be trapped and then shot.

Mr Davies is fully supportive of the action but wants to ensure that farmers are not involved in carrying out the cull.

"It is crucial that we see the Government taking responsibility for the process, it should not be left to farmers," said Mr Davies.

"The danger of putting this responsibility on farmers is that the agricultural industry will attract much criticism.

"TB in cattle has reached epidemic proportions in North Pembrokeshire or else we wouldn't be faced with having to take this drastic action.

"But this is the only way to control this terrible disease. What we must make sure of now is that the farmers on whose land this cull takes place are protected from any criticism."