Labour MP for Bournemouth East Tom Hayes has spoken in Parliament to call for new laws to stop the use of dogs in scientific testing.
In his speech, Hayes described animal testing as “poor science” and said it was “deeply upsetting” that dogs were still being used in experiments across the UK.
He said the current approach was outdated, and not in the public interest.
Hayes has voiced support for a proposed law known as Herbie’s Law, which is named after a rescued beagle and would create a plan to phase out animal testing.
He also called for a ban on secondary species testing, more independent inspections, and a move towards non-animal research methods.
Hayes said, “Bournemouth is a town of dog lovers, and as a dog lover myself, it’s deeply upsetting to know that dogs are being subjected to painful and unnecessary testing in UK laboratories.”
He highlighted that the European Union is further ahead in replacing animal testing with alternative methods.
He praised Bournemouth-based cosmetics company Lush for not testing on animals and for investing over £2.7 million into alternative research.
Hayes also thanked the RSPCA and the group Every Paw Matters.
He said Labour had a strong record on animal welfare and urged the government to finish the job by protecting animals through law.