§ Mr. DalyellTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, pursuant to the letter of Lord Williams of Mostyn AP/981/10/207, what assessment he has made of the quality of animal care in British universities. [41121]
§ Mr. George HowarthAll designated establishments are regularly inspected, on both an announced and unannounced basis, by members of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Inspectorate.
I am satisfied that the quality of animal care in British universities generally attains the high standards required under the terms of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 and the Codes of Practice issued under the Act. Where unexpected problems do occur, it is important that, in addition to any action taken by the Inspectorate, local controls are in place to ensure appropriate remedial action is taken.
We announced on 6 November 1997, Official Report, column 285, that local ethical review processes would become mandatory in all establishments. These will play an important role in promoting the care and welfare of animals within each establishment.