HC Deb 15 July 1992 vol 211 cc780-1W
Mr. Dalyell

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will withdraw or amend licences to supply primates for United Kingdom laboratories to prevent the supply of wild-caught primates and those captive-bred in their country of origin.

Mr. Charles Wardle

While the purpose-breeding of primates in this country for use in research meets some of the demand for the supply of such animals, the numbers and species bred does not meet all the demand. Where the use of primates in research is justified under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986, there may be no alternative to the use of wild-caught primates or those captive-bred abroad. Inspectors do, however, encourage the use of primates purpose-bred in this country where such animals are available.

We have no plans to withdraw or amend the certificates of designation of breeding and supplying establishments issued under section 7 of the 1986 Act to prevent the supply of wild-caught primates or those captive-bred abroad.

Mr. Simon Hughes

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will initiate a review of the care and use of primates in research in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Charles Wardle

The use of primates in research is strictly controlled and special justification is required under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 before the use of primates in research is allowed. The special considerations applying to the housing and care of laboratory primates are recognised in the Home Office code of practice.

The Home Office is carrying out a survey of large non-human primates holding facilities this year. One of the main aims of this special survey will be to examine the progress made in improving holding facilities since an earlier review carried out in 1988.

I understand that the Animal Procedures Committee intends undertaking a review of laboratory primates later this year as part of its continuing interest in this area. The Government look forward to receiving the conclusions of this review in due course.