---

Ministry of Defence

Answer

Mr. Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) if he will make a statement on the procedure used in the Sarin experiments on marmosets at Porton Down; and how the monkeys' welfare was protected; [142128] (2) if he will publish the cost/benefit analysis applied to the Sarin experiments conducted on marmosets at Porton Down; and if he will make a statement. [142127] Dr. Moonie: [holding answer 13 December 2000]: No formal financial cost/benefit analysis has been applied to the work involving the marmoset model to investigate whether a low dose of sarin disrupted performance of behavioural tests at the Chemical and Biological Defence Sector of Defence Evaluation and Research Agency (DERA) at Porton Down. However, balancing `cost' to the animal and the likely scientific benefits to mankind is a pivotal consideration. The marmosets lived in established male/female pairs in a housing system of interlinked cages. Behavioural tests were presented daily on a touch-sensitive screen in front of their home cage. Animals were always free to choose whether or not to engage in the task. This test battery was specifically devised to `bridge the gap' between non-human primate research and human studies. Each correct response was rewarded with a small quantity of banana milkshake which was not routinely fed as part of their varied and nutritionally complete diet. During performance of the task, the animal's electroencephalography (EEG) was measured by means of a surgically implanted radiotelemetry device. This technique represents a significant refinement in terms of animal welfare and does not involve the restraint of the animal. Once implanted, the data collection system did not interfere with the animals' freedom. Following administration of the sarin, animals were closely observed by experienced staff and no clinical signs were detected either in the short-term or over the duration of the study. The research team was supported by dedicated animal care staff and a highly experienced veterinary surgeon throughout the study. The techniques developed in the course of this work represent a significant advance in both animal welfare and scientific quality. This research involving marmosets has demonstrated that exposure to a single, low dose of the nerve agent sarin did not disrupt performance of a complex behavioural test and did not produce significant changes in brain electrical activity. These techniques have more widespread applicability in a number of areas of civilian research, notably in the investigation of neurodegenerative disorders. All work with animals undergoes an Ethical Review Process and has to demonstrate that as much as possible has been done to replace the procedures with alternatives not using living animals, to reduce numbers of animals used in particular studies, and to refine the procedures to minimise pain, suffering distress or lasting harm prior to the issue of licences to undertake work. All work involving the use of animals at the CBE Porton Down is also undertaken in accordance with the requirements of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986, which is overseen by the Home Office. In addition to the statutory controls, an independent body, the Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (AWAC), reviews the arrangements for animal care and welfare at DERA sites, monitors the research programmes to ensure standards are the highest possible and advises on best practice.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

360 c181-2W; 142128;142127

Session

2000-01

Subjects

Animal welfare Animal experiments Cost benefit analysis Primates Defence Evaluation and Research Agency Porton Down (Wiltshire)

Legislation

Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk