HC Deb 17 July 2001 vol 372 c129W
Ms Atherton

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when a decision is expected on changes to section 24 of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986. [2983]

Angela Eagle

The Government have a clear commitment to freedom of information and are equally committed to the maintenance of the necessary protection for individual scientists and their research institutions from the actions of animal rights extremists. I am considering very carefully how these commitments can best be met. A decision on whether to repeal or amend Section 24 of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 will not be made until later this year.