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UK parliamentarians call for transition to animal free science

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Rabbits in cage

We welcome report calling for human relevant research

A cross party parliamentary group – the APPG for Human Relevant Science – has today published its report Bringing back the human: transitioning from animal research to human relevant science in the UK

The report is the result of a year-long inquiry led by cross-party MPs and Peers who heard evidence from expert scientists and regulators highlighting the need for a central role for human relevant science in the UK. 

The report includes a number of key recommendations which we welcome and hope to see taken forward. These include: 

A government minister for human relevant science 

The report calls for government leadership to modernise medical research by putting the human first to unlock the potential for new medicines and better treatments for diseases. It recommends the creation of a dedicated ministerial-level post to lead on this ambitious programme of work to drive forward the UK’s transition to animal free science. 

Government backed UK Transition Programme 

MPs and Peers also heard about progress in the Netherlands through a government-backed transition programme and recommend the establishment of a UK Transition Programme for Innovation without animals. 

Improved funding 

The inquiry heard that human relevant technologies are woefully underfunded in the UK with just 0.02% of total public expenditure allocated to this area of work. The report recommends that the Government significantly increase funding for human relevant approaches by diverting resources away from animal experiments. 

The Chair of the APPG, Grahame Morris MP, said: 

“It has been fascinating to work with the All-Party Parliamentary Group in the evidence-gathering process over the past year. I welcome the publication of the report and its findings, which show that human relevant research has the potential to enhance the productivity of industry, improve public health, and cement both the UK’s status as a global science superpower and its reputation for leadership in animal protection. Given the Government’s renewed focus on stimulating the life sciences industry, it could not be timelier.” 

 

Kerry Postlewhite, our Director of Government and Regulatory Affairs, said:  

“Thanks to the members of the all-party group for the work they have done holding this inquiry. We welcome the publication of this report and its recommendations.  

“It is high time that we shifted the assumption that animal experiments are the default and instead create a system where cutting-edge non-animal methods are the norm. We need Government to take the lead and we need a clear commitment in UK law to animal-free science.” 

“MPs and Lords leading this inquiry have recognised the great potential of human relevant science. to deliver better health for humans and animals and untold benefits for the life sciences industry.” 

 

If you’re interested in finding out more about the work we do as part of the secretariat to the APPG for Human Relevant Science, sign up for our newsletters below. 

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