§ Dr. PalmerTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the use of animals in defence research. [5609]
§ Dr. MoonieThe independent Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (AWAC), chaired by Dr. Robert C. Hubrecht, has recently published its fifth annual report. The committee was set up in 1996 in response to public and parliamentary concern over the use of animals in defence research. Its purpose is to consult, inspect and make all necessary inquiries into all aspects of animal care and their use in establishments of the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL), part of the former Defence Evaluation and Research Agency (DERA).
The committee's report gives assurances that animals used in defence research programmes in the UK are regulated under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 and that no special exemptions apply to MOD. The committee's report emphasises the work that DERA have done to ensure the welfare of all animals used for defence research purposes. The committee was satisfied that all possible efforts were being made to ensure animal welfare and care.
Animal research is essential in order to protect our troops from hazards encountered during their duties. However, the Ministry of Defence continues to place emphasis on seeking alternatives to animal use. Although the numbers of animals used have reduced from past years, the technologies which will allow further reduction are still immature. The MOD welcomes the scrutiny by the Animal Welfare Advisory Committee in this area and will continue to support AWAC's review into the care and welfare arrangements for animals used in defence research.
Copies of the report have been placed in the Libraries of both Houses.