The Ethics of Research involving Animals
Resources - Previous work in the area
House of Lords Select Committee on Animals in Scientific Procedures
In March 2001, the House of Lords convened an ad hoc Select Committee to investigate the workings of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 and to examine issues relating to the use of animals in research. The Committee published its report in July 2002.
For more information:
Select Committee Report.
The Government responded to the report of the House of Lords on the 20 January 2003.
Animal Procedures Committee
The Animal Procedures Committee (APC) is an advisory, non-departmental Public Body established and appointed under the terms of sections 19 and 20 of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986.
Recent reports:
- APC Report on Openness, August 2001
- APC Report on Biotechnology, June 2001
The APC has recently consulted with the public on the issue of Cost/Benefit Assessment and the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act. It expects to report on the issue early in 2003.
Agriculture and Environment Biotechnology Commission (AEBC)
A sub-group of the AEBC was formed to consider animals and biotechnology.
- Animals and Biotechnology, September 2002
- Public attitudes to biotechnology with animals: a review, January 2002.
Boyd Group
The Boyd Group is a UK based forum for open exchange of views on issues of concern related to the use of animals in science. The Group has published a number of reports including:
- The Use of Non-Human Primates in Research and Testing, June 2002
- Genetic engineering: animal welfare and ethics, September 1999
The Boyd Group is currently exploring the use of animals in household product testing. A report is expected in early 2003.
http://www.boyd-group.demon.co.uk
The Royal Society
- The use of genetically modified animals, May 2001
The report describes the current medical and agricultural applications of genetically modified (GM) animals, the likely future directions of research in these areas, and current legislation governing the development and uses of GM animals in the UK.
Genewatch UK
- Genetically Modified and Cloned Animals. All in a Good Cause? April 2002
This report explores the ethical issues raised by GM animals, examines relevant UK regulation and discusses various perceived shortcomings in current practice and regulation.
Last Updated Fri, 15 December 2006