How is the use of animals in research regulated?
UK legislation
Controls on the use of animals in research have existed since 1876. These were revised and strengthened with the introduction of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act in 1986. Additional policies and codes have been added since 1986. These controls are widely regarded as some of the strictest in the world. The act only permits research to be undertaken when all three of the below licenses have been granted.
- Research can only take place in research institutes or companies which have appropriate animal accommodation and veterinary facilities, and have been granted a certificate of designation.
- Research can only be part of an approved research or testing programme which has been given a project licence.
- Research can only be carried out by people with sufficient training, skills and experience as shown in their personal licence.
European directive
Since its implementation in 1986, UK law has adhered to European directive 86/609/EEC on the ‘protection of animals used for experimental and other scientific purposes’. It was decided to revise the directive in November 2008 to promote improvements in the welfare of laboratory animals and to further encourage the development of alternative methods. The new European directive (2010/63/EU) came into force in November 2010 and must be integrated into UK and other member states’ legislation by January 2013.
Along with other medical research and bioscience organisations, the MRC has contributed to Home Office consultations on the implementation of the directive into UK law. The MRC is keen that the resultant legislation prioritises animal welfare and the application of the 3Rs (reduction, refinement and replacement of animals in research), harmonisation of standards across the European Union, the promotion of public confidence in humane animal research, and the reduction of unnecessary bureaucracy that does not directly promote animal welfare.