Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what plans she has to ensure that animals in laboratories are cared for and protected in the event that laboratory staff are self-isolating, sick, working from home or on reduced hours as a result of the covid-19 outbreak; and what steps she is taking to ensure that required inspections of animal testing facilities can be carried out safely during the covid-19 outbreak.

Establishments are responsible for the welfare of animals in their care. The Home Office has published guidance on Business Continuity Planning for Establishments, which is available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/guidance-on-the-operation-of-the-animals-scientific-procedures-act-1986#business-continuity-planning-guidance.

The Animals in Science Regulation ASRU has currently suspended on-site inspection visits. Inspection activities to assess compliance are being continued remotely, for example by telephone and email. There may be occasions where inspection visits need to be considered. Any such inspections will be planned on a case by case basis in accordance with official advice. Inspectors have specifically inspected establishments for preparedness for the care and protection of animals during the Coronavirus outbreak.