§ Mr. Edenasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many experiments per year on an average are inspected by his inspectors appointed under the Cruelty to Animals Act, 1876; what proportion this is of the total number of experiments performed; how many of the inspectors are qualified veterinary surgeons; and if he will make a statement on his policy regarding the minimising of suffering of animals Which are subjected to experiments.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerThe inspectors' function is to ensure, by frequent visits, and in other ways, that licensees understand and fulfil their responsibilities under the Act, rather than to inspect experiments. They see many experiments but do not record the number. None of the inspectors is a veterinary surgeon. The administration of the Act is directed to securing that no unnecessary suffering is caused to animals.
§ Mr. Edenasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if, in view of the increasing number of experiments on living animals, be will now receive a deputation from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerAs my right hon. Friend the Minister of State explained in answer to a Question by the hon. Member for Blackburn (Mrs. Castle) on 16th February, I have not hitherto thought a discussion necessary. But if the Society wish to make further representations to me I shall be glad to consider them.