John Swinney has condemned threats that have forced Scottish Government inspectors to withdraw from overseeing the slaughter of 271 cattle at a farm in Fife.
Inspectors found the animals were “unidentifiable and untraceable” during a routine Cattle Identification and Traceability Inspection at Falkland Estate.
The animals were placed under a permanent movement restriction, meaning they “cannot enter the food chain” before a decision was made that they must be slaughtered.
The Scottish Government initially planned to attend and verify the cull, but inspectors will now not attend after receiving threats online and by phone.
The First Minister said no public servant “should face intimidation” while carrying out their job.
Speaking to STV News, he said: “We have a very serious situation in our hands in this particular farm; it’s clear there has been a regulatory failure, and we now have action that has got to be taken.
“No individuals should be threatened in connection with the carrying out of their employment, and where inspectors have roles to carry out, they should be able to do it without being threatened in any way, shape or form.
“This is a deeply regrettable situation that we are facing, but it has to be confronted because we have to take the necessary protective steps in relation to the management of cattle within our society.”
The Scottish Government has said the slaughter will still be verified through alternative means.
On Thursday, Falkland Farm said it fully accepts responsibility for the “failures in management and oversight” that has led to the planned culling.
They have confirmed they are “fully committed” to resolving the situation.
A statement read: “Falkland Rural Enterprises Ltd sincerely apologises to all those affected by this incident, including the impact on our cattle, staff and wider community.
“The welfare of both animals and people is central to everything we do. We are fully committed to resolving this situation with care and compassion.
“We ask that the privacy and well-being of our staff, their families and community be respected during this difficult time. We are grateful for the support we have received and will not be making any further comment while we focus on recovery.”
What are the rules for owning cattle?
The cattle at the farm are being culled because they cannot legally enter the food chain under livestock traceability rules designed to help prevent and control disease outbreaks.
Cattle in Scotland must be individually identified with ear tags, and all births, deaths, and movements must be recorded through the ScotEID system.
The rules are designed to ensure livestock can be traced to protect public health.
The Scottish Government says the rules “must be adhered with for disease prevention, control, eradication and the protection of public health.”
Animals that cannot be properly identified or traced are classed as non‑compliant.
They are typically placed under strict movement restrictions, preventing them from being sold or moved.
In the most serious cases, keepers may have to slaughter animals that do not meet the legal requirements.
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