§ Lord Desaiasked Her Majesty's Government:
What consideration has been given to incorporating an independent element in future investigations by the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Inspectorate of allegations against establishments and individuals licensed under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986. [HL4468]
§ Lord Bassam of BrightonThe introduction of an independent element into future investigations under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 has been considered.
It has been concluded that the appointment of a small independent scrutiny team, drawn from the Animal Procedures Committee, and reporting directly to the Secretary of State would be the best and most practicable means of providing assurance that any future inspectorate investigations have been carried out with the necessary objectivity and thoroughness. The Government are grateful to the committee for agreeing to undertake this role following an approach to them in June 2000.