In episode 49 of the Animal Free Labcast, hosts Carla and Dr. Gemma Davis welcome two key guests from Animal Free Research UK — Head of Science, Dr. Ross Dobie and Director of Public Affairs, Isobel Martin — for a deep dive into the UK government’s new strategy on phasing out animal testing.

Main highlights

• 96% of listeners believe cancer research should prioritise replacing animal experiments.
• Ross and Isobel agree the new government strategy is a step forward, but not ambitious enough.
• The plan focuses more on phasing in alternatives than phasing out animal testing — a concern for campaigners.
• The team outlines four priorities to push progress further:

1. Put the strategy into law — so promises can’t quietly disappear with political change.
2. Replace animal-derived antibodies — switching to more reliable & ethical recombinant alternatives.
3. Give parliament a seat at the table — ensuring MPs can hold government to account.
4. Demand transparency — clearer timelines, budgets, and implementation details.

Big supporter milestone

Thanks to public action, all 650 UK MPs have now been contacted about the need for animal-free science — a major breakthrough driven entirely by supporters.

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