There have been 11 project licences granted and 29 project licences amended under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 to authorise work relating to the SARS-CoV-2 virus and COVID-19 research.

There were two cases of non-compliance with the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 recorded in Scotland in 2013. Neither led to a prosecution.

In 2010, the coalition Government made a commitment to work to reduce the use of animals in scientific research and our Delivery Plan was published in February 2014.

The commitment is being delivered through a science-led programme. At the core of the programme is a commitment to the 3Rs, led by the National Centre for Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs), an organisation with a strong record in reducing animal use. The NC3Rs closely involves Government Departments and agencies, the Home Office Inspectorate, the research community in both academia and industry, and others with relevant animal welfare interests.

I am committed to reducing the use of animals in research and the Delivery Plan shows how alternative methods can deliver fast, high quality research that also boosts economic growth. The commitment is not concerned with just baseline numbers, but encompasses the replacement, refinement and reduction (3Rs) more broadly. Aiming to achieve a target of reduction would be a flawed approach because numbers are not within our control. Instead, the Delivery Plan looks to support an agenda with the 3Rs at its heart.

The scientific case for developing new techniques that do not require the use of animals is now as strong as the moral one. This Delivery Plan is therefore our starting point for the future and it will pave the way for future practice, both at home and abroad, and will cement the UK’s place as an international leader in this field.

In 2010, the Government made a commitment to work to reduce the use of animals in scientific research in “Coalition: our programme for Government”. The Coalition commitment is not concerned with just baseline numbers, but encompasses the replacement, refinement and reduction (3Rs) more broadly, putting them at the heart of a science-led approach.

We intend to publish a Delivery Plan later this year that will set out how the Government is supporting and encouraging these advances and the programmes and policies through which Government will continue to deliver its commitment. The consequence will be accelerated take-up of the 3Rs—both domestically and internationally—set on the tenets of good science, good animal welfare and good for the UK and economic growth.

I have placed copies of the latest annual statistics on animal procedures in Great Britain 2012 under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 in the House Library and it is available from the Home Office website at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/statistics-of-scientific-procedures-on-living-animals-great-britain-2012

The following statistics reflect the returns under project licences where the primary availability is in Wales under the authorities of these licences. Returns reported for Wales could therefore include statistics for animals used at additional availabilities at other establishments not in Wales, or work at non-licensed places, also not in Wales.

In 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures conducted under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA):

(a) 24,220 genetically modified animals were used;

(b) 9,803 animals with a harmful genetic defect were used.

During 2012 in Wales, 85,892 regulated procedures were carried out under ASPA.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, there were six designated establishments under ASPA. There were:

(a) one designated as a combined scientific procedures, breeding and supplying establishment;

(b) two designated as combined scientific procedures and breeding establishments;

(c) three designated solely as scientific procedures establishments.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, regarding the severity of project licences granted under ASPA:

(a) 54% were in the mild severity banding;

(b) 44% were in the moderate severity banding;

(c) 1% were in the substantial banding;

(d) none were in the unclassified severity banding.

During 2012 in Wales, 77% of procedures regulated under ASPA were conducted without anaesthesia.

During 2012 in Wales, one infringement of ASPA was recorded, which did not result in prosecution.

During 2010, 515 project licences were granted under ASPA in the United Kingdom of which eight were granted at designated establishments in Wales. All of these eight licences were still in force on 31 December 2012.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) all were carried out for fundamental and applied studies other than toxicity;

(b) none were carried out for toxicity tests or other safety and efficacy evaluation.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 mice were used;

(b) 4,206 rats were used;

(c) 237 guinea pigs were used;

(d) no hamsters were used;

(e) no rabbits were used;

(f) no horses and other equids were used;

(g) 465 sheep were used;

(h) no pigs were used;

(i) 454 birds were used;

(j) 153 amphibians were used;

(k) no reptiles were used;

(l) 30,942 fish were used;

(m) two cats were used;

(n) no dogs were used;

(o) no new world primates were used;

(p) no old world primates were used.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 involved mice, of which:

(i) 23,981 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) 9,803 involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(b) 4,206 involved rats, of which:

(i) 239 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(c) 237 involved guinea pigs, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(d) none involved hamsters;

(e) none involved rabbits;

(f) none involved horses and other equids;

(g) 495 involved sheep, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(h) none involved pigs;

(i) 454 involved birds, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(j) none involved amphibians;

(k) none involved reptiles;

(l) 30,942 regulated procedures were conducted involving fish, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(m) two regulated procedures were conducted involving cats, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(n) none involved dogs;

(o) none involved new world primates;

(p) none involved old world primates.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted in different types of establishment under ASPA:

(a) 2% were performed in public health laboratories;

(b) 98% were performed in universities and medical schools;

(c) none were performed in NHS hospitals;

(d) none were performed in Government Departments;

(e) none were performed in other public bodies;

(f) none were performed in non-profit making organisations;

(g) none were performed in commercial organisations.

In 2010, the Government made a commitment to work to reduce the use of animals in scientific research in “Coalition: our programme for Government”. The Coalition commitment is not concerned with just baseline numbers, but encompasses the replacement, refinement and reduction (3Rs) more broadly, putting them at the heart of a science-led approach.

We intend to publish a Delivery Plan later this year that will set out how the Government is supporting and encouraging these advances and the programmes and policies through which Government will continue to deliver its commitment. The consequence will be accelerated take-up of the 3Rs—both domestically and internationally—set on the tenets of good science, good animal welfare and good for the UK and economic growth.

I have placed copies of the latest annual statistics on animal procedures in Great Britain 2012 under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 in the House Library and it is available from the Home Office website at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/statistics-of-scientific-procedures-on-living-animals-great-britain-2012

The following statistics reflect the returns under project licences where the primary availability is in Wales under the authorities of these licences. Returns reported for Wales could therefore include statistics for animals used at additional availabilities at other establishments not in Wales, or work at non-licensed places, also not in Wales.

In 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures conducted under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA):

(a) 24,220 genetically modified animals were used;

(b) 9,803 animals with a harmful genetic defect were used.

During 2012 in Wales, 85,892 regulated procedures were carried out under ASPA.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, there were six designated establishments under ASPA. There were:

(a) one designated as a combined scientific procedures, breeding and supplying establishment;

(b) two designated as combined scientific procedures and breeding establishments;

(c) three designated solely as scientific procedures establishments.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, regarding the severity of project licences granted under ASPA:

(a) 54% were in the mild severity banding;

(b) 44% were in the moderate severity banding;

(c) 1% were in the substantial banding;

(d) none were in the unclassified severity banding.

During 2012 in Wales, 77% of procedures regulated under ASPA were conducted without anaesthesia.

During 2012 in Wales, one infringement of ASPA was recorded, which did not result in prosecution.

During 2010, 515 project licences were granted under ASPA in the United Kingdom of which eight were granted at designated establishments in Wales. All of these eight licences were still in force on 31 December 2012.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) all were carried out for fundamental and applied studies other than toxicity;

(b) none were carried out for toxicity tests or other safety and efficacy evaluation.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 mice were used;

(b) 4,206 rats were used;

(c) 237 guinea pigs were used;

(d) no hamsters were used;

(e) no rabbits were used;

(f) no horses and other equids were used;

(g) 465 sheep were used;

(h) no pigs were used;

(i) 454 birds were used;

(j) 153 amphibians were used;

(k) no reptiles were used;

(l) 30,942 fish were used;

(m) two cats were used;

(n) no dogs were used;

(o) no new world primates were used;

(p) no old world primates were used.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 involved mice, of which:

(i) 23,981 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) 9,803 involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(b) 4,206 involved rats, of which:

(i) 239 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(c) 237 involved guinea pigs, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(d) none involved hamsters;

(e) none involved rabbits;

(f) none involved horses and other equids;

(g) 495 involved sheep, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(h) none involved pigs;

(i) 454 involved birds, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(j) none involved amphibians;

(k) none involved reptiles;

(l) 30,942 regulated procedures were conducted involving fish, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(m) two regulated procedures were conducted involving cats, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(n) none involved dogs;

(o) none involved new world primates;

(p) none involved old world primates.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted in different types of establishment under ASPA:

(a) 2% were performed in public health laboratories;

(b) 98% were performed in universities and medical schools;

(c) none were performed in NHS hospitals;

(d) none were performed in Government Departments;

(e) none were performed in other public bodies;

(f) none were performed in non-profit making organisations;

(g) none were performed in commercial organisations.

In 2010, the Government made a commitment to work to reduce the use of animals in scientific research in “Coalition: our programme for Government”. The Coalition commitment is not concerned with just baseline numbers, but encompasses the replacement, refinement and reduction (3Rs) more broadly, putting them at the heart of a science-led approach.

We intend to publish a Delivery Plan later this year that will set out how the Government is supporting and encouraging these advances and the programmes and policies through which Government will continue to deliver its commitment. The consequence will be accelerated take-up of the 3Rs—both domestically and internationally—set on the tenets of good science, good animal welfare and good for the UK and economic growth.

I have placed copies of the latest annual statistics on animal procedures in Great Britain 2012 under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 in the House Library and it is available from the Home Office website at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/statistics-of-scientific-procedures-on-living-animals-great-britain-2012

The following statistics reflect the returns under project licences where the primary availability is in Wales under the authorities of these licences. Returns reported for Wales could therefore include statistics for animals used at additional availabilities at other establishments not in Wales, or work at non-licensed places, also not in Wales.

In 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures conducted under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA):

(a) 24,220 genetically modified animals were used;

(b) 9,803 animals with a harmful genetic defect were used.

During 2012 in Wales, 85,892 regulated procedures were carried out under ASPA.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, there were six designated establishments under ASPA. There were:

(a) one designated as a combined scientific procedures, breeding and supplying establishment;

(b) two designated as combined scientific procedures and breeding establishments;

(c) three designated solely as scientific procedures establishments.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, regarding the severity of project licences granted under ASPA:

(a) 54% were in the mild severity banding;

(b) 44% were in the moderate severity banding;

(c) 1% were in the substantial banding;

(d) none were in the unclassified severity banding.

During 2012 in Wales, 77% of procedures regulated under ASPA were conducted without anaesthesia.

During 2012 in Wales, one infringement of ASPA was recorded, which did not result in prosecution.

During 2010, 515 project licences were granted under ASPA in the United Kingdom of which eight were granted at designated establishments in Wales. All of these eight licences were still in force on 31 December 2012.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) all were carried out for fundamental and applied studies other than toxicity;

(b) none were carried out for toxicity tests or other safety and efficacy evaluation.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 mice were used;

(b) 4,206 rats were used;

(c) 237 guinea pigs were used;

(d) no hamsters were used;

(e) no rabbits were used;

(f) no horses and other equids were used;

(g) 465 sheep were used;

(h) no pigs were used;

(i) 454 birds were used;

(j) 153 amphibians were used;

(k) no reptiles were used;

(l) 30,942 fish were used;

(m) two cats were used;

(n) no dogs were used;

(o) no new world primates were used;

(p) no old world primates were used.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 involved mice, of which:

(i) 23,981 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) 9,803 involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(b) 4,206 involved rats, of which:

(i) 239 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(c) 237 involved guinea pigs, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(d) none involved hamsters;

(e) none involved rabbits;

(f) none involved horses and other equids;

(g) 495 involved sheep, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(h) none involved pigs;

(i) 454 involved birds, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(j) none involved amphibians;

(k) none involved reptiles;

(l) 30,942 regulated procedures were conducted involving fish, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(m) two regulated procedures were conducted involving cats, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(n) none involved dogs;

(o) none involved new world primates;

(p) none involved old world primates.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted in different types of establishment under ASPA:

(a) 2% were performed in public health laboratories;

(b) 98% were performed in universities and medical schools;

(c) none were performed in NHS hospitals;

(d) none were performed in Government Departments;

(e) none were performed in other public bodies;

(f) none were performed in non-profit making organisations;

(g) none were performed in commercial organisations.

In 2010, the Government made a commitment to work to reduce the use of animals in scientific research in “Coalition: our programme for Government”. The Coalition commitment is not concerned with just baseline numbers, but encompasses the replacement, refinement and reduction (3Rs) more broadly, putting them at the heart of a science-led approach.

We intend to publish a Delivery Plan later this year that will set out how the Government is supporting and encouraging these advances and the programmes and policies through which Government will continue to deliver its commitment. The consequence will be accelerated take-up of the 3Rs—both domestically and internationally—set on the tenets of good science, good animal welfare and good for the UK and economic growth.

I have placed copies of the latest annual statistics on animal procedures in Great Britain 2012 under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 in the House Library and it is available from the Home Office website at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/statistics-of-scientific-procedures-on-living-animals-great-britain-2012

The following statistics reflect the returns under project licences where the primary availability is in Wales under the authorities of these licences. Returns reported for Wales could therefore include statistics for animals used at additional availabilities at other establishments not in Wales, or work at non-licensed places, also not in Wales.

In 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures conducted under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA):

(a) 24,220 genetically modified animals were used;

(b) 9,803 animals with a harmful genetic defect were used.

During 2012 in Wales, 85,892 regulated procedures were carried out under ASPA.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, there were six designated establishments under ASPA. There were:

(a) one designated as a combined scientific procedures, breeding and supplying establishment;

(b) two designated as combined scientific procedures and breeding establishments;

(c) three designated solely as scientific procedures establishments.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, regarding the severity of project licences granted under ASPA:

(a) 54% were in the mild severity banding;

(b) 44% were in the moderate severity banding;

(c) 1% were in the substantial banding;

(d) none were in the unclassified severity banding.

During 2012 in Wales, 77% of procedures regulated under ASPA were conducted without anaesthesia.

During 2012 in Wales, one infringement of ASPA was recorded, which did not result in prosecution.

During 2010, 515 project licences were granted under ASPA in the United Kingdom of which eight were granted at designated establishments in Wales. All of these eight licences were still in force on 31 December 2012.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) all were carried out for fundamental and applied studies other than toxicity;

(b) none were carried out for toxicity tests or other safety and efficacy evaluation.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 mice were used;

(b) 4,206 rats were used;

(c) 237 guinea pigs were used;

(d) no hamsters were used;

(e) no rabbits were used;

(f) no horses and other equids were used;

(g) 465 sheep were used;

(h) no pigs were used;

(i) 454 birds were used;

(j) 153 amphibians were used;

(k) no reptiles were used;

(l) 30,942 fish were used;

(m) two cats were used;

(n) no dogs were used;

(o) no new world primates were used;

(p) no old world primates were used.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 involved mice, of which:

(i) 23,981 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) 9,803 involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(b) 4,206 involved rats, of which:

(i) 239 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(c) 237 involved guinea pigs, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(d) none involved hamsters;

(e) none involved rabbits;

(f) none involved horses and other equids;

(g) 495 involved sheep, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(h) none involved pigs;

(i) 454 involved birds, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(j) none involved amphibians;

(k) none involved reptiles;

(l) 30,942 regulated procedures were conducted involving fish, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(m) two regulated procedures were conducted involving cats, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(n) none involved dogs;

(o) none involved new world primates;

(p) none involved old world primates.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted in different types of establishment under ASPA:

(a) 2% were performed in public health laboratories;

(b) 98% were performed in universities and medical schools;

(c) none were performed in NHS hospitals;

(d) none were performed in Government Departments;

(e) none were performed in other public bodies;

(f) none were performed in non-profit making organisations;

(g) none were performed in commercial organisations.

In 2010, the Government made a commitment to work to reduce the use of animals in scientific research in “Coalition: our programme for Government”. The Coalition commitment is not concerned with just baseline numbers, but encompasses the replacement, refinement and reduction (3Rs) more broadly, putting them at the heart of a science-led approach.

We intend to publish a Delivery Plan later this year that will set out how the Government is supporting and encouraging these advances and the programmes and policies through which Government will continue to deliver its commitment. The consequence will be accelerated take-up of the 3Rs—both domestically and internationally—set on the tenets of good science, good animal welfare and good for the UK and economic growth.

I have placed copies of the latest annual statistics on animal procedures in Great Britain 2012 under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 in the House Library and it is available from the Home Office website at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/statistics-of-scientific-procedures-on-living-animals-great-britain-2012

The following statistics reflect the returns under project licences where the primary availability is in Wales under the authorities of these licences. Returns reported for Wales could therefore include statistics for animals used at additional availabilities at other establishments not in Wales, or work at non-licensed places, also not in Wales.

In 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures conducted under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA):

(a) 24,220 genetically modified animals were used;

(b) 9,803 animals with a harmful genetic defect were used.

During 2012 in Wales, 85,892 regulated procedures were carried out under ASPA.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, there were six designated establishments under ASPA. There were:

(a) one designated as a combined scientific procedures, breeding and supplying establishment;

(b) two designated as combined scientific procedures and breeding establishments;

(c) three designated solely as scientific procedures establishments.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, regarding the severity of project licences granted under ASPA:

(a) 54% were in the mild severity banding;

(b) 44% were in the moderate severity banding;

(c) 1% were in the substantial banding;

(d) none were in the unclassified severity banding.

During 2012 in Wales, 77% of procedures regulated under ASPA were conducted without anaesthesia.

During 2012 in Wales, one infringement of ASPA was recorded, which did not result in prosecution.

During 2010, 515 project licences were granted under ASPA in the United Kingdom of which eight were granted at designated establishments in Wales. All of these eight licences were still in force on 31 December 2012.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) all were carried out for fundamental and applied studies other than toxicity;

(b) none were carried out for toxicity tests or other safety and efficacy evaluation.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 mice were used;

(b) 4,206 rats were used;

(c) 237 guinea pigs were used;

(d) no hamsters were used;

(e) no rabbits were used;

(f) no horses and other equids were used;

(g) 465 sheep were used;

(h) no pigs were used;

(i) 454 birds were used;

(j) 153 amphibians were used;

(k) no reptiles were used;

(l) 30,942 fish were used;

(m) two cats were used;

(n) no dogs were used;

(o) no new world primates were used;

(p) no old world primates were used.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 involved mice, of which:

(i) 23,981 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) 9,803 involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(b) 4,206 involved rats, of which:

(i) 239 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(c) 237 involved guinea pigs, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(d) none involved hamsters;

(e) none involved rabbits;

(f) none involved horses and other equids;

(g) 495 involved sheep, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(h) none involved pigs;

(i) 454 involved birds, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(j) none involved amphibians;

(k) none involved reptiles;

(l) 30,942 regulated procedures were conducted involving fish, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(m) two regulated procedures were conducted involving cats, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(n) none involved dogs;

(o) none involved new world primates;

(p) none involved old world primates.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted in different types of establishment under ASPA:

(a) 2% were performed in public health laboratories;

(b) 98% were performed in universities and medical schools;

(c) none were performed in NHS hospitals;

(d) none were performed in Government Departments;

(e) none were performed in other public bodies;

(f) none were performed in non-profit making organisations;

(g) none were performed in commercial organisations.

In 2010, the Government made a commitment to work to reduce the use of animals in scientific research in “Coalition: our programme for Government”. The Coalition commitment is not concerned with just baseline numbers, but encompasses the replacement, refinement and reduction (3Rs) more broadly, putting them at the heart of a science-led approach.

We intend to publish a Delivery Plan later this year that will set out how the Government is supporting and encouraging these advances and the programmes and policies through which Government will continue to deliver its commitment. The consequence will be accelerated take-up of the 3Rs—both domestically and internationally—set on the tenets of good science, good animal welfare and good for the UK and economic growth.

I have placed copies of the latest annual statistics on animal procedures in Great Britain 2012 under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 in the House Library and it is available from the Home Office website at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/statistics-of-scientific-procedures-on-living-animals-great-britain-2012

The following statistics reflect the returns under project licences where the primary availability is in Wales under the authorities of these licences. Returns reported for Wales could therefore include statistics for animals used at additional availabilities at other establishments not in Wales, or work at non-licensed places, also not in Wales.

In 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures conducted under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA):

(a) 24,220 genetically modified animals were used;

(b) 9,803 animals with a harmful genetic defect were used.

During 2012 in Wales, 85,892 regulated procedures were carried out under ASPA.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, there were six designated establishments under ASPA. There were:

(a) one designated as a combined scientific procedures, breeding and supplying establishment;

(b) two designated as combined scientific procedures and breeding establishments;

(c) three designated solely as scientific procedures establishments.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, regarding the severity of project licences granted under ASPA:

(a) 54% were in the mild severity banding;

(b) 44% were in the moderate severity banding;

(c) 1% were in the substantial banding;

(d) none were in the unclassified severity banding.

During 2012 in Wales, 77% of procedures regulated under ASPA were conducted without anaesthesia.

During 2012 in Wales, one infringement of ASPA was recorded, which did not result in prosecution.

During 2010, 515 project licences were granted under ASPA in the United Kingdom of which eight were granted at designated establishments in Wales. All of these eight licences were still in force on 31 December 2012.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) all were carried out for fundamental and applied studies other than toxicity;

(b) none were carried out for toxicity tests or other safety and efficacy evaluation.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 mice were used;

(b) 4,206 rats were used;

(c) 237 guinea pigs were used;

(d) no hamsters were used;

(e) no rabbits were used;

(f) no horses and other equids were used;

(g) 465 sheep were used;

(h) no pigs were used;

(i) 454 birds were used;

(j) 153 amphibians were used;

(k) no reptiles were used;

(l) 30,942 fish were used;

(m) two cats were used;

(n) no dogs were used;

(o) no new world primates were used;

(p) no old world primates were used.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 involved mice, of which:

(i) 23,981 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) 9,803 involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(b) 4,206 involved rats, of which:

(i) 239 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(c) 237 involved guinea pigs, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(d) none involved hamsters;

(e) none involved rabbits;

(f) none involved horses and other equids;

(g) 495 involved sheep, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(h) none involved pigs;

(i) 454 involved birds, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(j) none involved amphibians;

(k) none involved reptiles;

(l) 30,942 regulated procedures were conducted involving fish, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(m) two regulated procedures were conducted involving cats, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(n) none involved dogs;

(o) none involved new world primates;

(p) none involved old world primates.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted in different types of establishment under ASPA:

(a) 2% were performed in public health laboratories;

(b) 98% were performed in universities and medical schools;

(c) none were performed in NHS hospitals;

(d) none were performed in Government Departments;

(e) none were performed in other public bodies;

(f) none were performed in non-profit making organisations;

(g) none were performed in commercial organisations.

In 2010, the Government made a commitment to work to reduce the use of animals in scientific research in “Coalition: our programme for Government”. The Coalition commitment is not concerned with just baseline numbers, but encompasses the replacement, refinement and reduction (3Rs) more broadly, putting them at the heart of a science-led approach.

We intend to publish a Delivery Plan later this year that will set out how the Government is supporting and encouraging these advances and the programmes and policies through which Government will continue to deliver its commitment. The consequence will be accelerated take-up of the 3Rs—both domestically and internationally—set on the tenets of good science, good animal welfare and good for the UK and economic growth.

I have placed copies of the latest annual statistics on animal procedures in Great Britain 2012 under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 in the House Library and it is available from the Home Office website at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/statistics-of-scientific-procedures-on-living-animals-great-britain-2012

The following statistics reflect the returns under project licences where the primary availability is in Wales under the authorities of these licences. Returns reported for Wales could therefore include statistics for animals used at additional availabilities at other establishments not in Wales, or work at non-licensed places, also not in Wales.

In 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures conducted under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA):

(a) 24,220 genetically modified animals were used;

(b) 9,803 animals with a harmful genetic defect were used.

During 2012 in Wales, 85,892 regulated procedures were carried out under ASPA.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, there were six designated establishments under ASPA. There were:

(a) one designated as a combined scientific procedures, breeding and supplying establishment;

(b) two designated as combined scientific procedures and breeding establishments;

(c) three designated solely as scientific procedures establishments.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, regarding the severity of project licences granted under ASPA:

(a) 54% were in the mild severity banding;

(b) 44% were in the moderate severity banding;

(c) 1% were in the substantial banding;

(d) none were in the unclassified severity banding.

During 2012 in Wales, 77% of procedures regulated under ASPA were conducted without anaesthesia.

During 2012 in Wales, one infringement of ASPA was recorded, which did not result in prosecution.

During 2010, 515 project licences were granted under ASPA in the United Kingdom of which eight were granted at designated establishments in Wales. All of these eight licences were still in force on 31 December 2012.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) all were carried out for fundamental and applied studies other than toxicity;

(b) none were carried out for toxicity tests or other safety and efficacy evaluation.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 mice were used;

(b) 4,206 rats were used;

(c) 237 guinea pigs were used;

(d) no hamsters were used;

(e) no rabbits were used;

(f) no horses and other equids were used;

(g) 465 sheep were used;

(h) no pigs were used;

(i) 454 birds were used;

(j) 153 amphibians were used;

(k) no reptiles were used;

(l) 30,942 fish were used;

(m) two cats were used;

(n) no dogs were used;

(o) no new world primates were used;

(p) no old world primates were used.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 involved mice, of which:

(i) 23,981 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) 9,803 involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(b) 4,206 involved rats, of which:

(i) 239 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(c) 237 involved guinea pigs, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(d) none involved hamsters;

(e) none involved rabbits;

(f) none involved horses and other equids;

(g) 495 involved sheep, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(h) none involved pigs;

(i) 454 involved birds, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(j) none involved amphibians;

(k) none involved reptiles;

(l) 30,942 regulated procedures were conducted involving fish, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(m) two regulated procedures were conducted involving cats, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(n) none involved dogs;

(o) none involved new world primates;

(p) none involved old world primates.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted in different types of establishment under ASPA:

(a) 2% were performed in public health laboratories;

(b) 98% were performed in universities and medical schools;

(c) none were performed in NHS hospitals;

(d) none were performed in Government Departments;

(e) none were performed in other public bodies;

(f) none were performed in non-profit making organisations;

(g) none were performed in commercial organisations.

In 2010, the Government made a commitment to work to reduce the use of animals in scientific research in “Coalition: our programme for Government”. The Coalition commitment is not concerned with just baseline numbers, but encompasses the replacement, refinement and reduction (3Rs) more broadly, putting them at the heart of a science-led approach.

We intend to publish a Delivery Plan later this year that will set out how the Government is supporting and encouraging these advances and the programmes and policies through which Government will continue to deliver its commitment. The consequence will be accelerated take-up of the 3Rs—both domestically and internationally—set on the tenets of good science, good animal welfare and good for the UK and economic growth.

I have placed copies of the latest annual statistics on animal procedures in Great Britain 2012 under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 in the House Library and it is available from the Home Office website at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/statistics-of-scientific-procedures-on-living-animals-great-britain-2012

The following statistics reflect the returns under project licences where the primary availability is in Wales under the authorities of these licences. Returns reported for Wales could therefore include statistics for animals used at additional availabilities at other establishments not in Wales, or work at non-licensed places, also not in Wales.

In 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures conducted under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA):

(a) 24,220 genetically modified animals were used;

(b) 9,803 animals with a harmful genetic defect were used.

During 2012 in Wales, 85,892 regulated procedures were carried out under ASPA.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, there were six designated establishments under ASPA. There were:

(a) one designated as a combined scientific procedures, breeding and supplying establishment;

(b) two designated as combined scientific procedures and breeding establishments;

(c) three designated solely as scientific procedures establishments.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, regarding the severity of project licences granted under ASPA:

(a) 54% were in the mild severity banding;

(b) 44% were in the moderate severity banding;

(c) 1% were in the substantial banding;

(d) none were in the unclassified severity banding.

During 2012 in Wales, 77% of procedures regulated under ASPA were conducted without anaesthesia.

During 2012 in Wales, one infringement of ASPA was recorded, which did not result in prosecution.

During 2010, 515 project licences were granted under ASPA in the United Kingdom of which eight were granted at designated establishments in Wales. All of these eight licences were still in force on 31 December 2012.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) all were carried out for fundamental and applied studies other than toxicity;

(b) none were carried out for toxicity tests or other safety and efficacy evaluation.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 mice were used;

(b) 4,206 rats were used;

(c) 237 guinea pigs were used;

(d) no hamsters were used;

(e) no rabbits were used;

(f) no horses and other equids were used;

(g) 465 sheep were used;

(h) no pigs were used;

(i) 454 birds were used;

(j) 153 amphibians were used;

(k) no reptiles were used;

(l) 30,942 fish were used;

(m) two cats were used;

(n) no dogs were used;

(o) no new world primates were used;

(p) no old world primates were used.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 involved mice, of which:

(i) 23,981 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) 9,803 involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(b) 4,206 involved rats, of which:

(i) 239 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(c) 237 involved guinea pigs, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(d) none involved hamsters;

(e) none involved rabbits;

(f) none involved horses and other equids;

(g) 495 involved sheep, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(h) none involved pigs;

(i) 454 involved birds, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(j) none involved amphibians;

(k) none involved reptiles;

(l) 30,942 regulated procedures were conducted involving fish, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(m) two regulated procedures were conducted involving cats, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(n) none involved dogs;

(o) none involved new world primates;

(p) none involved old world primates.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted in different types of establishment under ASPA:

(a) 2% were performed in public health laboratories;

(b) 98% were performed in universities and medical schools;

(c) none were performed in NHS hospitals;

(d) none were performed in Government Departments;

(e) none were performed in other public bodies;

(f) none were performed in non-profit making organisations;

(g) none were performed in commercial organisations.

In 2010, the Government made a commitment to work to reduce the use of animals in scientific research in “Coalition: our programme for Government”. The Coalition commitment is not concerned with just baseline numbers, but encompasses the replacement, refinement and reduction (3Rs) more broadly, putting them at the heart of a science-led approach.

We intend to publish a Delivery Plan later this year that will set out how the Government is supporting and encouraging these advances and the programmes and policies through which Government will continue to deliver its commitment. The consequence will be accelerated take-up of the 3Rs—both domestically and internationally—set on the tenets of good science, good animal welfare and good for the UK and economic growth.

I have placed copies of the latest annual statistics on animal procedures in Great Britain 2012 under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 in the House Library and it is available from the Home Office website at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/statistics-of-scientific-procedures-on-living-animals-great-britain-2012

The following statistics reflect the returns under project licences where the primary availability is in Wales under the authorities of these licences. Returns reported for Wales could therefore include statistics for animals used at additional availabilities at other establishments not in Wales, or work at non-licensed places, also not in Wales.

In 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures conducted under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA):

(a) 24,220 genetically modified animals were used;

(b) 9,803 animals with a harmful genetic defect were used.

During 2012 in Wales, 85,892 regulated procedures were carried out under ASPA.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, there were six designated establishments under ASPA. There were:

(a) one designated as a combined scientific procedures, breeding and supplying establishment;

(b) two designated as combined scientific procedures and breeding establishments;

(c) three designated solely as scientific procedures establishments.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, regarding the severity of project licences granted under ASPA:

(a) 54% were in the mild severity banding;

(b) 44% were in the moderate severity banding;

(c) 1% were in the substantial banding;

(d) none were in the unclassified severity banding.

During 2012 in Wales, 77% of procedures regulated under ASPA were conducted without anaesthesia.

During 2012 in Wales, one infringement of ASPA was recorded, which did not result in prosecution.

During 2010, 515 project licences were granted under ASPA in the United Kingdom of which eight were granted at designated establishments in Wales. All of these eight licences were still in force on 31 December 2012.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) all were carried out for fundamental and applied studies other than toxicity;

(b) none were carried out for toxicity tests or other safety and efficacy evaluation.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 mice were used;

(b) 4,206 rats were used;

(c) 237 guinea pigs were used;

(d) no hamsters were used;

(e) no rabbits were used;

(f) no horses and other equids were used;

(g) 465 sheep were used;

(h) no pigs were used;

(i) 454 birds were used;

(j) 153 amphibians were used;

(k) no reptiles were used;

(l) 30,942 fish were used;

(m) two cats were used;

(n) no dogs were used;

(o) no new world primates were used;

(p) no old world primates were used.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 involved mice, of which:

(i) 23,981 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) 9,803 involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(b) 4,206 involved rats, of which:

(i) 239 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(c) 237 involved guinea pigs, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(d) none involved hamsters;

(e) none involved rabbits;

(f) none involved horses and other equids;

(g) 495 involved sheep, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(h) none involved pigs;

(i) 454 involved birds, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(j) none involved amphibians;

(k) none involved reptiles;

(l) 30,942 regulated procedures were conducted involving fish, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(m) two regulated procedures were conducted involving cats, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(n) none involved dogs;

(o) none involved new world primates;

(p) none involved old world primates.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted in different types of establishment under ASPA:

(a) 2% were performed in public health laboratories;

(b) 98% were performed in universities and medical schools;

(c) none were performed in NHS hospitals;

(d) none were performed in Government Departments;

(e) none were performed in other public bodies;

(f) none were performed in non-profit making organisations;

(g) none were performed in commercial organisations.

In 2010, the Government made a commitment to work to reduce the use of animals in scientific research in “Coalition: our programme for Government”. The Coalition commitment is not concerned with just baseline numbers, but encompasses the replacement, refinement and reduction (3Rs) more broadly, putting them at the heart of a science-led approach.

We intend to publish a Delivery Plan later this year that will set out how the Government is supporting and encouraging these advances and the programmes and policies through which Government will continue to deliver its commitment. The consequence will be accelerated take-up of the 3Rs—both domestically and internationally—set on the tenets of good science, good animal welfare and good for the UK and economic growth.

I have placed copies of the latest annual statistics on animal procedures in Great Britain 2012 under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 in the House Library and it is available from the Home Office website at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/statistics-of-scientific-procedures-on-living-animals-great-britain-2012

The following statistics reflect the returns under project licences where the primary availability is in Wales under the authorities of these licences. Returns reported for Wales could therefore include statistics for animals used at additional availabilities at other establishments not in Wales, or work at non-licensed places, also not in Wales.

In 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures conducted under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA):

(a) 24,220 genetically modified animals were used;

(b) 9,803 animals with a harmful genetic defect were used.

During 2012 in Wales, 85,892 regulated procedures were carried out under ASPA.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, there were six designated establishments under ASPA. There were:

(a) one designated as a combined scientific procedures, breeding and supplying establishment;

(b) two designated as combined scientific procedures and breeding establishments;

(c) three designated solely as scientific procedures establishments.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, regarding the severity of project licences granted under ASPA:

(a) 54% were in the mild severity banding;

(b) 44% were in the moderate severity banding;

(c) 1% were in the substantial banding;

(d) none were in the unclassified severity banding.

During 2012 in Wales, 77% of procedures regulated under ASPA were conducted without anaesthesia.

During 2012 in Wales, one infringement of ASPA was recorded, which did not result in prosecution.

During 2010, 515 project licences were granted under ASPA in the United Kingdom of which eight were granted at designated establishments in Wales. All of these eight licences were still in force on 31 December 2012.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) all were carried out for fundamental and applied studies other than toxicity;

(b) none were carried out for toxicity tests or other safety and efficacy evaluation.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 mice were used;

(b) 4,206 rats were used;

(c) 237 guinea pigs were used;

(d) no hamsters were used;

(e) no rabbits were used;

(f) no horses and other equids were used;

(g) 465 sheep were used;

(h) no pigs were used;

(i) 454 birds were used;

(j) 153 amphibians were used;

(k) no reptiles were used;

(l) 30,942 fish were used;

(m) two cats were used;

(n) no dogs were used;

(o) no new world primates were used;

(p) no old world primates were used.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 involved mice, of which:

(i) 23,981 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) 9,803 involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(b) 4,206 involved rats, of which:

(i) 239 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(c) 237 involved guinea pigs, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(d) none involved hamsters;

(e) none involved rabbits;

(f) none involved horses and other equids;

(g) 495 involved sheep, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(h) none involved pigs;

(i) 454 involved birds, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(j) none involved amphibians;

(k) none involved reptiles;

(l) 30,942 regulated procedures were conducted involving fish, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(m) two regulated procedures were conducted involving cats, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(n) none involved dogs;

(o) none involved new world primates;

(p) none involved old world primates.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted in different types of establishment under ASPA:

(a) 2% were performed in public health laboratories;

(b) 98% were performed in universities and medical schools;

(c) none were performed in NHS hospitals;

(d) none were performed in Government Departments;

(e) none were performed in other public bodies;

(f) none were performed in non-profit making organisations;

(g) none were performed in commercial organisations.

In 2010, the Government made a commitment to work to reduce the use of animals in scientific research in “Coalition: our programme for Government”. The Coalition commitment is not concerned with just baseline numbers, but encompasses the replacement, refinement and reduction (3Rs) more broadly, putting them at the heart of a science-led approach.

We intend to publish a Delivery Plan later this year that will set out how the Government is supporting and encouraging these advances and the programmes and policies through which Government will continue to deliver its commitment. The consequence will be accelerated take-up of the 3Rs—both domestically and internationally—set on the tenets of good science, good animal welfare and good for the UK and economic growth.

I have placed copies of the latest annual statistics on animal procedures in Great Britain 2012 under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 in the House Library and it is available from the Home Office website at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/statistics-of-scientific-procedures-on-living-animals-great-britain-2012

The following statistics reflect the returns under project licences where the primary availability is in Wales under the authorities of these licences. Returns reported for Wales could therefore include statistics for animals used at additional availabilities at other establishments not in Wales, or work at non-licensed places, also not in Wales.

In 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures conducted under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA):

(a) 24,220 genetically modified animals were used;

(b) 9,803 animals with a harmful genetic defect were used.

During 2012 in Wales, 85,892 regulated procedures were carried out under ASPA.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, there were six designated establishments under ASPA. There were:

(a) one designated as a combined scientific procedures, breeding and supplying establishment;

(b) two designated as combined scientific procedures and breeding establishments;

(c) three designated solely as scientific procedures establishments.

At the end of 2012 in Wales, regarding the severity of project licences granted under ASPA:

(a) 54% were in the mild severity banding;

(b) 44% were in the moderate severity banding;

(c) 1% were in the substantial banding;

(d) none were in the unclassified severity banding.

During 2012 in Wales, 77% of procedures regulated under ASPA were conducted without anaesthesia.

During 2012 in Wales, one infringement of ASPA was recorded, which did not result in prosecution.

During 2010, 515 project licences were granted under ASPA in the United Kingdom of which eight were granted at designated establishments in Wales. All of these eight licences were still in force on 31 December 2012.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) all were carried out for fundamental and applied studies other than toxicity;

(b) none were carried out for toxicity tests or other safety and efficacy evaluation.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of animals used in regulated procedures under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 mice were used;

(b) 4,206 rats were used;

(c) 237 guinea pigs were used;

(d) no hamsters were used;

(e) no rabbits were used;

(f) no horses and other equids were used;

(g) 465 sheep were used;

(h) no pigs were used;

(i) 454 birds were used;

(j) 153 amphibians were used;

(k) no reptiles were used;

(l) 30,942 fish were used;

(m) two cats were used;

(n) no dogs were used;

(o) no new world primates were used;

(p) no old world primates were used.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the number of regulated procedures conducted under ASPA:

(a) 48,850 involved mice, of which:

(i) 23,981 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) 9,803 involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(b) 4,206 involved rats, of which:

(i) 239 involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(c) 237 involved guinea pigs, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(d) none involved hamsters;

(e) none involved rabbits;

(f) none involved horses and other equids;

(g) 495 involved sheep, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(h) none involved pigs;

(i) 454 involved birds, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(j) none involved amphibians;

(k) none involved reptiles;

(l) 30,942 regulated procedures were conducted involving fish, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(m) two regulated procedures were conducted involving cats, of which:

(i) none involved genetically-modified animals;

(ii) none involved animals with a harmful genetic defect;

(n) none involved dogs;

(o) none involved new world primates;

(p) none involved old world primates.

During 2012 in Wales, regarding the proportion of regulated procedures conducted in different types of establishment under ASPA:

(a) 2% were performed in public health laboratories;

(b) 98% were performed in universities and medical schools;

(c) none were performed in NHS hospitals;

(d) none were performed in Government Departments;

(e) none were performed in other public bodies;

(f) none were performed in non-profit making organisations;

(g) none were performed in commercial organisations.

Of the project licences granted under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 in Scotland in 2012, 42% were in the mild, 56% moderate, 1% substantial. The remaining 1% were not allocated to any of these bands.

Home Office inspectors have been investigating the allegations against Imperial College and we intend to publish a report later this year.

My noble Friend, Lord Taylor has met with the Imperial College establishment licence holder and other relevant senior individuals to discuss the independent investigative report that they have commissioned and agreed to publish. They have provided strong assurances of a rigorous inquiry.

It is imperative that lessons learned and broader issues for the wider community are taken from this incident. We have therefore requested the Government's independent expert advisory body, the Animals in Science Committee (ASC), to review both the inspectorate's report and Imperial College's independent report, when both are available, and to provide me with advice.

The ASC report will also be made public. Copies will be placed in the House Library.

We are presently reviewing section 24 of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA).

Central to our work on openness and transparency is the review we are undertaking of section 24 which provides for the protection of confidential information provided in connection with our regulatory activities under ASPA. A breach of section 24 can result in criminal sanctions. The requirements of section 24 are now out of step with our policy on openness and transparency and with the approach taken in other legislation, such as the Freedom of Information Act 2000. The solution we develop must improve the overall transparency surrounding research using animals while protecting personal identities and intellectual property and commercial competitiveness.

We are presently reviewing section 24 of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA).

Central to our work on openness and transparency is the review we are undertaking of section 24 which provides for the protection of confidential information provided in connection with our regulatory activities under ASPA. A breach of section 24 can result in criminal sanctions. The requirements of section 24 are now out of step with our policy on openness and transparency and with the approach taken in other legislation, such as the Freedom of Information Act 2000. The solution we develop must improve the overall transparency surrounding research using animals while protecting personal identities and intellectual property and commercial competitiveness.

[holding answer 25 October 2013]: There were 4.03 million animals used in scientific procedures in Great Britain in 2012 (most recent year for which data are available); 3.71 million were used in 2011, and 3.64 million were used in 2010.

Northern Ireland statistics are published separately by the Northern Ireland Health, Social Services and Public Health Department. Statistics for 2012 will be published November/December 2013. There were 17,687 animals used in scientific procedures in Northern Ireland in 2011 and 17,668 were used in 2010.

During 2010 a total of 515 project licences in total were granted under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 in the United Kingdom of which 100 were granted at establishments in Scotland. Of these, 91 licences were still in force on 31 December 2012.

I note that the statistics reported reflect the returns in the annual statistics under project licences where the primary availability is in Scotland. Returns reported for Scotland could therefore include statistics for additional availabilities at other establishments not in Scotland, or work at non-licensed places, also not in Scotland, that are authorised by the project licence.