Question to the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, with reference to the Replacing Animals in Science strategy, what training initiatives are underway for a) early career scientists and b) science students to ensure they have the skills and expertise in methods that do not use animals.

The Replacing Animals in Science strategy commits to strengthening skills and capability in non-animal methods among early career researchers. The National Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs) is leading delivery of this commitment and remains on track to do so by the end of 2026. Delivery includes improving access to training and expertise in alternative methods, and running a successful summer school open to PhD students from several funders. Further updates will be provided as part of reporting on implementation of the strategy.