Animal protection campaigners welcomed the support of local MP, Sir David Amess, for important advances in the effort to reduce the use of animals in laboratories.

Twin campaigns by the BUAV, Britain's leading organisation campaigning to end animal experiments, call for lifting the secrecy surrounding the licensing of animal experiments and an end to the use of animal testing for household products such as washing-up liquid.

Both campaigns have been accepted in principle by the Government, who promised last year to implement the changes before the election, but with time running out Sir David Amess MP has joined with 76 colleagues across all parties to support a motion calling for immediate action.

Sir David said, “I have always been a strong supporter of the protection of animals and I believe that it is crucial for the changes proposed by these campaigns to be implemented as soon as possible. The BUAV have brought some serious issues to the attention of the Government and it is our responsibility to address them. I hope to see this happen soon.”

BUAV Chief Executive, Michelle Thew said, "We welcome Sir David Amess’ support for this motion. When a consensus on progress has finally been reached, it would be very frustrating if it failed to materialise due to Government inaction in the last two months of this Parliament. We hope that David's backing will help secure these important steps in making a difference for animals in laboratories."