Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what recent steps is she taking to ensure the adequate enforcement of the requirement in the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 to use scientifically satisfactory non-animal methods wherever possible.

The UK regulatory framework has a rigorous approach to the application of the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction and Refinement) in all applications for programmes of work involving animals. Establishments conducting research must have robust internal governance systems and processes that ensure the regulated activities carried out at the establishment are undertaken in accordance with the principles of the 3Rs.

In October 2021 the Home Office commenced full system audits of licensed establishments to ensure compliance. Further information can be found on GOV.UK at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/animal-research-technical-advice

The Government continues to actively support and fund the development and dissemination of the 3Rs. This is achieved through UK Research and Innovation who fund the National Centre for the 3Rs and research into the development of alternatives through Innovate UK, the Medical Research Council, and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.