Background

When people are asked "what sort of controls should there be for animal experiments?" the most common things they suggest are:

• Allow animal experiments only when there is no alternative
• Keep the animals' suffering to as little as possible
• Use the smallest number of animals possible
• Monitor what takes place by someone independent

Without realising it, they are describing what we actually have in the UK today. Animal experiments are strictly controlled here and responsibilities are clear.

Before an experiment can take place:

1. the research project must be assessed to ensure use of animals is justified, the number of animals is the least possible, and any suffering they will experience will be minimised,
2. scientists must prove they are suitably qualified, trained and experienced, and
3. the laboratory itself has to be approved for such work.

It is generally agreed that Britain has the strongest controls of any country in the world. Inspectors from the Home Office can visit any laboratory, any time, unannounced.

Within each laboratory there is a senior person (the Certificate Holder) whose job is to ensure the laboratory complies with the law. A named veterinary surgeon is also required so that research animals receive adequate medical support, at all hours. Finally, there must also be a named person for the day-to-day welfare of the animals. The size of the teams these three manage will depend on the size of the laboratory. None of these named roles diminishes the responsibility of the scientist licensed to carry out an experiment. He or she has primary responsibility for the welfare of the animals.

It is not only the law and the Home Office that have to be satisfied. The place where the experiments will take place must first review and approve the project. The UK is the only country in the world to have both legislation and ethical review for animal research. If the scientists are seeking grants from a funding organisation, such as a charity, then it too will want to be satisfied that any proposed animal procedures are justified.