A constructive step forward as government discuss plans with NGOs
We met with Minister of State for Science, Research and Innovation, Lord Patrick Vallance, to discuss the UK’s transition towards a future free from animal testing.
We shared our vision for a modern approach to science that prioritises cutting-edge, human-relevant technologies over outdated and often unreliable animal experiments, with the Minister who is leading the development of the government’s cross-departmental plans to phase-out animal testing.
We were joined at the meeting, held at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology offices in Westminster, by colleagues from across the animal protection sector.
The government has promised to publish a strategy for the development and uptake of non-animal alternatives later this year, to build on its manifesto commitment to work to phase out animal testing. This means that now is the time to shape ambition and direction.
In the meeting, we raised five key priorities:
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A comprehensive phase-out plan: government must set out how it intends to actively phase out animal research and testing across all sectors rather than simply relying on the development of alternative technologies. Our RAT List demonstrates how one does not necessarily lead to the other. In parallel, the government must take steps to immediately eliminate tests for which there is no justification, either on scientific or ethical grounds.
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Clear pathway and accountability: the government must define a clear pathway for the phase-out, with specific milestones and allocated responsibilities to deliver each element.
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Meaningful metrics: metrics must be defined and used to track progress during this Parliament, with transparent reporting.
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Improved data sharing: improve transparency and boost data-sharing, eliminate redundant tests and improve access to information to drive progress and maintain public trust.
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Government leadership and responsibility: the government must take proactive responsibility for delivering the phase-out – including redirecting funding, supporting transitions, enforcing legal duties, conducting regular licensing reviews, and establishing an independent committee to lead and monitor progress.
Our Head of Public Affairs, Dylan Underhill, who attended the meeting, said: “This represents a key moment for us to influence the government’s approach, and ensure it delivers meaningful change for animals and science. We were encouraged by the Minister’s openness, and recognition of the huge potential of non-animal methods to deliver positive change, not just in the interest of animals in laboratories but for scientific innovation in this country. We’ll continue to push for an ambitious government approach and look forward to seeing their alternative technologies strategy later this year.”