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Written question asked by Martin Wrigley (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 28 April 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 30 April 2025. It was answered by Feryal Clark (Labour) on Wednesday, 7 May 2025 on behalf of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.


Animal Experiments: Shellfish

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what steps he is taking to reduce animal testing on decapod crustaceans in scientific research.

Answer

The Labour Manifesto includes a commitment to “partner with scientists, industry, and civil society as we work towards the phasing out of animal testing”, which is a long-term goal.

The Government will publish a strategy to support the development, validation and uptake of alternative methods later this year.

The use of animals in research is regulated by the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986, which covers all living vertebrates and cephalopods but does not currently include decapods. Government strategy will cover species protected under ASPA, but this does not limit additional species from being protected as understanding of sentience evolves.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
48656
Session
2024-26
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Animal experiments Shellfish
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk