Written questions

Animal Experiments: Shellfish

Commons · Question 4425 · Tabled 29 May 2026 · Home Office · Official record

Answered 4 Jun 2026

Question

Asked by Ruth Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what steps is she taking to (a) reduce the numbers of decapod crustaceans used in scientific procedures and (b) strengthen expertise of these creatures within the Animals in Science Regulation Unit.

Answer

Answered by Sarah Jones, 4 Jun 2026

The Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act 2022 recognises decapod crustaceans as sentient beings. The Government is committed to an evidence-based and proportionate approach to their welfare, including where they are used in scientific research.The Home Office h...