Written question asked by Ben Obese-Jecty (Conservative) on Monday, 13 April 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 15 April 2026. It was answered by Sarah Jones (Labour) on Tuesday, 21 April 2026 on behalf of the Home Office.

Animal Experiments

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, with reference to the policy paper entitled Replacing animals in science: A strategy to support the development, validation and uptake of alternative methods, published on 11 November 2025, by when she expects the Animals in Science Committee to provide their advice on (a) strengthening leading practice for the regulated sector and (b) best practice for animal welfare and ethical review bodies.

Answer

The Animals in Science Committee (ASC) published its report, Strengthening leading practice in the animals in science sector, on 19th January 2026. It is available to read here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/strengthening-leading-practice-in-the-animals-in-science-sector.

The ASC expects to publish its report on Animal Welfare and Ethical Review Bodies by 30th September 2026. Further information is available here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/timescales-for-asc-commissions-letter-to-lord-hanson.

Secondary information