Work is ongoing for more to be done to stop lab testing on animals, with support from a local MP.

The RSPCA has called on the UK Government to lead efforts in avoiding and replacing the use of animals in research and testing, with Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock MP, Allan Dorans supporting these calls.

Statistics shows that tens of millions of animals are used in research and testing globally each year, including around three million in the UK.

The RSPCA is calling for the UK Government to lead the way by agreeing that ‘phasing out’ the use of animals in science is a desirable goal, and setting out a clear strategy for achieving this.

Mr Dorans said he knows that this is an issue that his constituents think is important.

He said: “I’m proud to support the RSPCA and I will be doing my bit to help push the ‘phase out’ campaign forward.

"It was fantastic to hear about their work and their vision for a better future for lab animals, which I know is an issue of importance to my constituents in Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock and the country.

“The millions of animals used in UK labs every year can't wait forever. As one of the largest users of lab animals anywhere in Europe, the UK has a responsibility to lead the agenda on working to phase out animal use".

He added: “It's time for the UK Government to show that it's taking this issue seriously by setting out a coordinated action plan for achieving the goal of phasing out lab animal use.

"The current lack of a clear ambition for this is simply not good enough and I am pleased to be adding my voice to this issue.”

Current laws prohibit the testing on animals of some products, including many household items.

However, the UK Government website says that project licensing can be granted in some instances.

It says: "It is the responsibility of the project licence holder to check whether, for any ingredients tested on animals, the primary intention or expectation is to use it in Household Products as defined in Section 3, and that appropriate project licence authority exists for such testing.

"The project licence holder should be able to demonstrate that they have exercised due diligence in seeking appropriate evidence from entities commissioning testing.

"Where there is a regulatory requirement for the testing of a substance, the project licence holder is required to retrospectively notify the Home Office of the test."