HL Deb 01 April 1981 vol 419 cc297-8WA
Lord Houghton of Sowerby

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What are the conditions, stipulations, and safeguards (including records of sources and purchases and sales being open to inspection) laid down for the entry of dog dealers on the list of those recognised by the Medical Research Council.

Baroness Young

Since 1st January 1973, dog suppliers who did not breed their dogs have not been eligible for entry to the Medical Research Council's Recognition Scheme for the Supply of Laboratory Animals. Dog breeders who held a valid certificate of accreditation under the Council's Accreditation Scheme could, until 1st January 1977, apply to become recognised suppliers. After that date the recognition scheme (in so far as the supply of dogs was concerned) was closed to all new applicants. The rules for both these voluntary schemes are contained in the MRC Laboratory Animals Centre Manual Series No. 1 (January 1974) and I have placed a copy of this publication in the Library.