The UK government plans to phase out animal experiments, ending several major safety tests by 2025 and reducing the use of dogs and non-human primates in medical research by at least 35% by 2030.
Science Minister Lord Vallance said animal testing could eventually approach “near zero,” though progress has stalled since 2020. The government aims to promote alternatives like human cell models, AI, and computer simulations.
Scientists are divided: some argue complex diseases still need whole-animal studies, while others point to advances like “organ-on-a-chip” systems.
By late 2025, tests such as rabbit pyrogen and animal-based germ detection will be replaced with cell-based methods. Longer-term plans include expanding non-animal technologies, creating a Centre for the Validation of Alternative Methods, and providing £30m for a research hub.
