Rise in animal laboratory tests

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/uk_politics/8161315.stm

Version 0 of 1.

The amount of scientific research using animals rose significantly in 2008, Home Office figures show.

The number of procedures in England, Scotland and Wales rose by more than 450,000, or 14%, to 3.7 million.

The government said it was due to an increase in essential research and global trends.

Ministers said animals were only used where there was no alternative and doing so may yield potential benefits for people, animals or the environment.

Testing is regulated under the terms of the 1986 Animals Act which ministers say provides one of the highest standards of animal protection in the world.

"As the regulator, we ensure that a proper balance between animal welfare and scientific advancement is maintained," said Home Office minister Lord West.

"Advances with non-animal test methods continue to be made but, at present, licensed animal use remains essential to develop improved healthcare technologies."