Concerns about animal welfare are taken seriously, and there is a clear expectation in the UK that animals must be treated with dignity and care.Animal research is regulated under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986.
The safety and security of patient data must remain at the front and centre of any NHS system. Public confidence depends on strong safeguards, clear rules, and proper oversight.
I understand the strength of feeling on the use of animals in medical and scientific research, and the concern raised by recent footage circulating in the media.
I supported the proposal to raise the minimum age for access to social media platforms to 16, along with stronger measures to protect children online. I am disappointed that the House of Commons did not support these changes when they were put forward.
The Animal Welfare Committee has considered evidence and raised concerns about high concentration CO₂ use in the slaughter of pigs, alongside potential alternatives.