§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what steps he is taking to enable students studying for science degrees and doctorates to avoid taking part in animal experiments they do not wish to participate in. [9988]
§ Dr. HowellsUnder the terms of the Further and Higher Education Act 1992, the Secretary of State for Education and Employment has no powers to influence particular courses of study or programmes of research carried out in higher education institutions.
It should be clear to students before they start a particular course of study whether or not it will involve animal experimentation. In some cases, it would be possible for students to opt for alternative modules if they so wished. However, a student's decision as to whether or not to participate in animal experimentation is a matter between the individual student and the relevant institution.