We are a nation of animal lovers, and I receive a great deal of correspondence from constituents about animal welfare. Nobody wants to see animals suffer, and Labour’s new Animal Sciences Strategy – launched earlier this month – will ensure Britain leads the world in finding safe, effective alternatives to animal testing.
For too long, research into alternatives was underfunded, leaving scientists with limited options. Labour’s plan changes that, with £75 million in funding to develop and fast-track new testing technologies. These innovations will save lives, support our world-class life sciences sector, and strengthen the UK’s reputation for ethical research and scientific excellence.
By streamlining the process for approving alternatives, Labour will accelerate the transition away from animal use while maintaining the highest standards of safety. The strategy recognises that new methods must be proven reliable and effective before adoption – we will not compromise on people’s safety or the integrity of our science.
This is one of the most detailed strategies of its kind anywhere in the world. It has been developed with scientists, businesses, and animal welfare organisations to minimise animal use without slowing research or innovation. The properly regulated use of animals will continue where no reliable alternative yet exists, but the direction of travel is clear: towards an economy built on compassion, innovation, and evidence.
In the same way that remembrance reminds us of our moral duty to those who served, our commitment to animal welfare reflects the values we hold as a country: decency, care, and progress. Under this Labour Government, the UK will continue to lead with both heart and science.
