HC Deb 03 July 1975 vol 894 c542W
Mr. Lomas

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he expects the Advisory Committee on the Administration of the Cruelty to Animals Act 1876 to report its findings on the use of beagle dogs in smoking experiments; and if he will make a statement.

Dr. Summerskill

I understand that the Committee is aiming to report in the autumn.

Mr. Lomas

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will ask the Advisory Committee on the Administration of the Cruelty to Animals Act 1876 to seek ways of accelerating the decrease in the number of animals used for experimental purposes, and preventing the duplication of experimental procedures involving the use of live animals, where obvious or prolonged suffering is likely to ensure.

Dr. Summerskill

No. It would not be practicable or appropriate to give functions of this kind to the advisory committee.