§ Mr. Ronald Atkinsasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science (1) what inspection is carried out to guarantee the welfare of animals bred for research;
(2) how many firms are dealing in laboratory animals.
§ Mr. MulleyThere is no complete register of breeders and suppliers of laboratory animals, but 62 organisations voluntarily participate in the Medical Research Council's accreditation and recognition schemes. The council arranges for the regular inspection of the premises of these organisations. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Home Department is required by the Cruelty to Animals Act 1876 to cause all places registered under that Act for the performance of experiments involving animals to be inspected.