§ Mr. DavidsonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps the Government(a) have taken and (b) plan to take to protect scientific staff whose work involves animal testing from physical attacks and harassment directed at them because of their employment; and if he will make a statement. [158820]
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§ Mr. Mike O'BrienThe Government are totally committed to the protection of those working or otherwise connected with legitimate scientific research on animals.
Proposals aimed at preventing protests outside homes and strengthening the law on malicious communications and harassment have been included in the Criminal Justice and Police Bill currently before Parliament. In addition, the Government have published a consultation paper on the Government's strategy for tackling animal rights extremism, a copy of which is in the Library. We will continue to liaise closely with the police and other criminal justice agencies to ensure effective enforcement of the law in this area.