Animal Experiments

So far as animal warfare experiments are concerned and animal experimentation at Porton Down, I understand concerns regarding the use of animals in scientific testing. I believe that the use of animals should be avoided wherever possible, and in the limited cases when animals are used, this should be done in accordance with strict guidelines to ensure any suffering is minimised.

I am not entirely satisfied that the procedures in place to ensure the suffering of animals is kept to a strict minimum are rigorous enough and whilst I welcome the fact that the number of animals involved in scientific procedures at Porton Down between 2011 and 2019 fell from 9,722 to 1,490, I think more needs to be done to reduce the number.

Consequently, I have signed the Parliamentary motion, EDM291.