To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what steps he takes to ensure the welfare of animals used in scientific procedures as a result of a decision by his Department.

The Ministry of Defence has always taken the issue of animal health and welfare seriously and Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) complies fully with all of the UK legislative requirements.

All Dstl staff who wish to work with animals are required to attend internal Dstl courses prior to their application for a personal licence. Following the successful completion of the required internal and legislative training, staff continue to undertake on the job training; individual training records are maintained to ensure required competence for procedures.

In order to maintain high welfare standards and share best practice Dstl staff are encouraged to visit other facilities and attend appropriate conferences e.g. meetings of the Institute of Animal Technologists, the Laboratory Animal Science Association and the Laboratory Animal Veterinary Association.

Information gathered is then shared within Dstl via dedicated internal forums.