Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, whether reviews have been conducted by (a) the Animals in Science Regulation Unit and (b) other relevant bodies to ensure that the facilities at MBR Acres in Wyton, Huntingdon, provide appropriate safeguards for (i) dogs and (ii) puppies; and whether she is taking steps to ensure that licence conditions adequately protect animals during periods of extreme heat.

The Animals in Science Regulation Unit conducts both announced and unannounced audits to ensure establishments’ compliance with the terms of their licences, the Code of Practice and with the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA). ASPA provides protections for animals bred in the UK for use in scientific procedures.

These documents require establishments to have contingency plans to ensure animal welfare. Establishment licence holders must ensure sufficient trained staff are in place to maintain high standards of care and facility management.

Daily checks by competent personnel are mandated to monitor animal welfare and environmental conditions, with prompt action required to address any issues. Establishments are required to report any breaches or potential breaches of licence conditions to the Secretary of State.