I was so frustrated at the government's extraordinary arrogance that I decided to something constructive

Lady Aspley

Lady Aspley launched the campaign last September with the support of the shadow attorney general, the National Farmers' Union, the Country Landowners' Association and the Countryside Alliance.

She said: "It had become painfully clear that the government was unwilling to conduct any sort of inquiry that gave all those who suffered so horribly as a consequence of the foot-and-mouth outbreak a chance to put their experiences at the disposal of the people who could, and should, prevent a re-occurrence.

"I was so frustrated at the government's extraordinary arrogance that I decided to something constructive."

Lady Aspley said the petition has won "enormous support", including backing from many people in towns and cities.

She added: "It is vital that the government realise that they simply cannot continue with the cover-ups and spin that have prevailed throughout the crisis and a public inquiry is the only way that will enable us all to prevent such a disaster happening again."

Mr Cash said it was essential that any investigation has the power to compel witnesses to appear and to give evidence on oath.

Rob Simpson of the National Farmers' Union said: "A number of our members have expressed concern about the lack of independence and the lack of transparency in the enquiries announced by the government."

'Great concern'

The campaign petition was being handed in after calls for a full public inquiry were made by the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats.

Farmers watched their herds destroyed and burned

And Professor Ian Mercer, head of the panel which investigated the outbreak in Devon, said: "There is still a great concern culpability has not been apportioned - a proper legal public inquiry is the only way we can bring anyone to account."

Of the three investigations announced by the government the key one will be led by Dr Iain Anderson, examining the lessons to be learned.

He will tour Britain and hold a series of public meetings to hear first-hand evidence from those directly affected by the outbreak.

But although Dr Anderson will also hear from officials and ministers concerned their evidence will be given in private.