Animals (Experiments)

HC Deb 28 May 1976 vol 912 cc413-4W

Mr. Burden

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if establishments in which animals are bred for laboratory purposes are licensed.

Dr. Summerskill

There is no general provision which requires establishments in which animals are bred for laboratory purposes to be licensed as such. The Breeding of Dogs Act 1973, however, requires any person who carries on a business of breeding dogs for the purposes of sale to obtain a licence in respect of the premises where that business is conducted, and this requirement applies whatever the purpose for which the dogs are sold.

Mr. Pardoe

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he proposes to take to ensure that laboratories licensed to perform experiments on animals do not use stolen pets.

Dr. Summerskill

We have no jurisdiction as regards the supply of animals for experimental purposes. My information is that most laboratories where experiments on living animals are performed either breed their own animals or obtain them from reputable dealers. The handling of stolen goods—including pets—is an offence under the Theft Act 1968, and evidence of any suspected offence should be brought to the attention of the police.