Grahame Morris MP has added his name to an amendment to the Environment Bill, which is to be debated at report stage in the Commons this afternoon.

The Bill seeks to provide a legal framework for environmental governance, and make provision for specific improvement of the environment, including measures on waste and resource efficiency, air quality and environmental recall, water, nature and biodiversity, and conservation covenants.

Clause NC18 would require the Secretary of State to commit to set targets for the reduction and replacement of animal testing for the purposes of chemicals regulation.

The Easington MP chairs the newly-established APPG on Human Relevant Science, which seeks to bring together MPs and Peers of all parties to accelerate the development and uptake of human relevant life sciences in the UK.

The Group held its first virtual meeting on 26th November 2020, during which members had a fascinating exchange with a panel of scientists about the funding barriers faced by researchers involved in non-animal research.

At its next virtual meeting on 9th February, the Group will be talking to scientists and regulators about the regulatory barriers faced by researchers, and the extent to which these barriers are holding back the development and uptake of non-animal research and new approach methodologies.

Grahame Morris MP said, “I am supporting this amendment as it makes provisions for the growing evidence in favour of human relevant medical research techniques, which are replacing outdated animal-based testing. Replacing poorly-performing animal tests with innovative human relevant new approach methodologies will directly benefit the UK science base and enhance the efficiency and profitability of industries that make vital contributions to the UK economy.”

Early Day Motion 256 on accelerating human relevant life sciences in the UK has been signed by 83 cross-party MPs.