HC Deb 17 November 1966 vol 736 c617
19. Mr. Peter Mills

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what progress has been made in the collection of information concerning the export of animals for research purposes from interested bodies as suggested in his letter of 25th October, 1966, to the hon. Member for Torrington.

Miss Bacon

Of the 16 organisations consulted, 10 have submitted views, four have indicated that they will submit considered replies later and two have not yet replied.

Mr. Mills

Would not the right hon. Lady agree that the collection of this information is absolutely vital as people are very concerned about this problem? Will she urge those concerned to give this information? Will she back up, support and give every facility to the hon. Member for Belfast, South (Mr. Pounder) in his Bill?

Miss Bacon

Yes. I think it was noticeable that when the hon. Member for Belfast, South (Mr. Pounder) asked leave to bring in his Bill the other day there was considerable sympathy in all parts of the House. The hon. Member will be interested to know that I recently saw a deputation from the British Council of the Anti-Vivisection Societies about this matter. I hope that various bodies will send in their replies quickly.