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. Where animals are still used in research, it must only ever happen under strict regulation, with a continued focus on reducing use and replacing it wherever reliable alternatives exist.
The Government has set out a roadmap towards phasing out animal testing where possible, alongside a “baskets” approach to prioritising tests for replacement as suitable alternatives develop. This includes work already underway through the National Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs), which is focused on developing and validating non-animal methods.
I support the direction of travel towards greater use of alternatives, but it is also important that changes are made safely and based on sound science, so that we do not risk driving research and development to countries with lower standards or undermining the development of new medicines and treatments.
I will continue to follow the implementation of this work closely and press for progress where it is achievable in practice.