HC Deb 29 February 1984 vol 55 c202W
Mr. Boyes

asked the Secretary of State for Defence during which year the use of animals to investigate nerve gas commenced in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Lee

So far as can be ascertained from readily available records, 1945.

Mr. Boyes

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how many animals have been used in experiments involving nerve gas during the periods 1956 to 1960. 1960 to 1970 and for each year since 1971 to date; how many animals died as a result of these experiments; how many were killed at the conclusion of the experiments; and what species were used in the experiments.

Mr. Lee

It is not possible to provide the numerical information requested. The main species used are guinea pigs, rats and mice.

Back to
Forward to