§ Mr. Cohenasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether he will ensure that all students wishing to undertake officially approved examinations are not required against their will to perform animal dissection 131W work; whether he is prepared to make representation to the examination boards urging the use of alternatives to dissection; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. RumboldIn December 1985 the GCE boards issued a joint statement which said that they do not require dissection of whole animals in courses below sixth form level. It is widely considered by teachers that educational benefits accrue from including limited dissection in A level biology courses, and the boards' requirements reflect this. In the Government's view, decisions about the detailed content of the school curriculum, including dissection, should be taken at local level. It is for those concerned to take into account differing opinions on this sensitive matter, and to consider possible alternatives to dissection.
In the case of students on courses in further and higher education, it is for the relevant academic and professional authorities to consider whether dissection should be a necessary element.