Like a lot of people, I am dismayed by the sad tale of the badgers in Saltdean.

When human rights and animal rights clash, it seems the animals lose hands down. What does this say about humanity? Might is right, perhaps?

Defra's defence of its actions (The Argus, October 12) stated the decision had been taken with great reluctance, all other avenues had been explored, the badgers posed a risk of spreading TB and trapping, handling and release into unfamiliar territory can be stressful to a wild animal (not half as stressful as being trapped, handled and humanely shot, I wouldn't think).

This sort of bland, professional, logical response is hard to challenge.

However, if the problem with badgers was as general as Defra describes, why was action not initiated before?

The truth is that Defra has responded to just a few people's general request and then manufactured reasons why it is desirable to do so.

This is not a one-sided issue. It requires a balanced approach which takes into account the badgers' needs as well as those of a few disgruntled householders in Saltdean.

-Anne McLaren, Roundhill Crescent, Brighton