Scientific and Regulatory Procedures: Use of Dogs

Commented on the disconnect between scientific possibilities of non-animal alternatives and their implementation, commending Cruelty Free International's work.

Recognises a large proportion of dogs used in procedures are beagles... Agrees that we must have a clear timeframe for an immediate ban.

Discusses the impact of using dogs in scientific research, highlighting that more than 90% of drugs that pass animal tests still fail when they reach human trials. Calls for a shift towards modern, human-relevant methods such as organ on a chip and advanced computer modelling.

Notes that this process has no legislative basis and no public consent. Hopes to ensure man’s best friend is left alone.

Responded to concerns and outlined the UK's commitment to reducing animal use while adhering to international regulations.

Asked for the current Government to match or exceed previous commitments in funding alternative methods to animal testing.

Highlights consensus across the House regarding ethical questions around the use of dogs in research. Calls for significant funding into alternative methods that are more humane and scientifically advanced.

Raises concerns about the use of dogs in laboratory experiments based on ethical, emotional, practical, and scientific grounds. Highlights advances in non-animal methods that are more accurate and cost-effective.

Asked if there is public support for setting a roadmap to end animal testing.

Intervenes to highlight alternative approaches pioneered by Professor Lorna Harries that can replace some experimental techniques used on dogs.

562 of her constituents signed the petition. She supported the Labour Government's commitment to phasing out animal testing and highlighted the need for new technology and methods that reduce animal suffering. Asked when Labour’s road map for banning animal testing would be published.

Supports the transposition of animal sentience into British law to ensure high welfare standards.

The hon. Member shares his experience with pet dogs to highlight the contradiction between loving them at home and subjecting them to medical experiments. He supports Herbie's law, advocating for a ban on dog testing in the UK. Asked the Minister to share sources supporting claims about the value of animal testing.

Asked for clear dates from the Minister regarding an end to testing on dogs and all animals.

Supports phasing out the use of dogs in medical research, citing his private Member’s Bill on phasing out animals in medical research. Highlights that more than 92% of drugs that pass animal tests fail in human trials, and supports investing in cutting-edge methods such as organ-on-a-chip technology. Questioned the Minister about increases in the use of specially protected species and the refusal rate of project licences.

Stands up for dog welfare, arguing that animal testing is poor science and harmful to dogs. Supports Herbie’s law to end the use of dogs in scientific experiments.

Acknowledges his constituency's strong support for animal welfare with over 300 signatures on the petition. Emphasises the importance of AI technology as a humane alternative to dog testing, urging meaningful engagement with animal protection groups.

The hon. Member calls for a future using AI technologies such as organ-on-a-chip and virtual models to reduce the need for animal testing, urging the Government to take leadership in this field.