HC Deb 09 December 1976 vol 922 cc296-7W
Mr. Lomas

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will introduce legislation calling for a complete ban on the international trade in all laboratory animals, on the grounds of conservation, disease risk and humane principles.

Dr. Summerskill

Legislation containing powers to regulate the import and export of animals, whether or not for laboratory purposes, already exists. These powers have been exercised when there has been evidence of a specific need for such control. The Government are not aware of any need for a complete ban.

Mr. Lomas

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what control is placed on breeders of animals for laboratory use.

Dr. Summerskill

Animals bred for laboratory use, in common with animals bred for other purposes, have the protection afforded by the Protection of Animals Act 1911 or the Protection of Animals (Scotland) Act 1912 and, in the case of dogs, by the Breeding of Dogs Act 1973.