The environment department Defra yesterday revealed sweeping new plans for the prevention of veterinary disease which will be regarded by many farmers and landowners as yet another stealth tax.

The new powers, described in a draft Animal Health Bill, would create yet another quango with the appointment of a new chief vet for England, wider powers for Government vets to enforce tests in suspected disease out breaks, and simplify payments for animals that had to be put down.

But the cost of these proposals would be born by the farm industry rather than Defra, as happens now.

After pointing out perceived improvements in animal care, Defra secretary Hilary Benn added ominously: “This Bill will therefore set up a joint Government-industry body to make animal health decisions in future. Proposals for cost sharing will come forward in a future Finance Bill.”