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<p>We have taken a number of steps to gain assurances about the quality of non-human
primates being imported for research within the legal constraints available to us.
We have emphasised to those UK users who acquire these primates that they are responsible
for ensuring that the breeders and suppliers they deal with have proper controls and
processes in place. In order to be assured that these animals are of appropriate quality
for the work authorised on their project licences, they need to be confident of high
standards of care and welfare. <br><br>We are aware that, in recent years, these UK
users have routinely visited and inspected their overseas primate breeders, and that
they do indeed demand these high standards. We are encouraging this to continue. <br><br>Home
Office Inspectors assigned to establishments holding and using imported primates play
a key role in monitoring the situation. Through inspection visits and other contact
with animal care staff, inspectors maintain awareness of the importations of primates,
both consignments already acquired and those due. This enables appropriately timed
inspections to be carried out to monitor the quality of animals being acquired. <br><br>We
also expect the local inspector to be notified promptly in the event of any significant
health or welfare problems which may occur following arrival of an importation of
primates. Should a particular source be shown to be delivering primates of unacceptable
quality from the perspective of their health and welfare, we will deal with this through
the relevant licence authorisation. <br><br>No UK users have been found to have insufficient
controls and processes in place.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>
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