§ Dr. LadymanTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what requirement, in terms of objectivity, is requested of members of the Scientific Procedures Committee. [116952]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienThe Animal Procedures Committee was established by the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986. The Act requires the Secretary of State, who appoints members, to have regard to the desirability of ensuring that the interests of animal welfare are adequately represented. There is also a requirement that the committee shall have regard both to the legitimate requirements of science and industry and to the protection of animals. The key consideration in making appointments to the committee is the need to maintain a breadth of professional experience and a proper balance of views among the membership.
In 1998, the committee adopted a Code of Conduct for Members. This requires members at all times to act in good faith and observe the highest standards of impartiality, integrity and objectivity in relation to the conduct of the Committee's business; to declare any personal or business interest which may influence their judgment: not to participate in discussion of matters in which they have a personal or business interest; and to understand that they are appointed as individuals and not as representatives of organisations with which they have significant contacts.