HC Deb 12 April 2002 vol 383 cc627-8W
Norman Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans his Department has to improve the care standards for non-human primates in the Code of Practice for the Housing and Care of Animals Used in Scientific Puposes; and if he will make a statement. [47998]

Angela Eagle

[holding answer 10 April 2002]: Standards for the housing and care of laboratory animals, including non-human primates, are currently the subject of review under the auspices of the Council of Europe. This work is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2002. We will review the relevant codes of practice applicable in the United Kingdom in the light of the outcome of the Council of Europe review and any consequential changes to European directive 86/609/EEC.

Norman Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many breeding establishments in Mauritius are authorised as sources of non-human primates under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986; and if he will make a statement. [47997]

Angela Eagle

[holding answer 10 April 2002]: There is currently authority for non-human primates from one breeding establishment in Mauritius to be used in programmes of work licensed under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986.