Why aren alternatives to animals used more and what Government money is spent on alternatives research?
The Government strongly supports the development and use of non-animal alternatives where possible. Indeed use of animals in scientific procedures will not be licensed if alternative non-animal techniques are available. The National Centre for Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs) was announced in May 2004 and acts as a focal point for research into the 3Rs. The NC3Rs is an independent scientific organisation which provides a UK focus for the advancement of the 3Rs. Working with stakeholders in academia, industry, Government, research funders, regulatory authorities, and animal welfare organisations the Centre aims to increase the development and implementation of the 3Rs in medical, biological and veterinary research and testing. The Centre is funded by Government and the Research Councils and also receives some funding from the Home Office, Welcome Trust and Industry. We estimate that the total spent by the UK Government and funding bodies on alternativ
