What defines a project licence?

A project licence is specifically defined as a programme of work that has been approved for various animal uses, particularly within the context of scientific research or testing. This type of licence is crucial because it outlines the scope of the work, including the objectives, methods, and number of animals to be used, ensuring adherence to ethical standards and regulations.

The primary purpose of a project licence is to ensure that any proposed work involving animals is carefully considered, justified, and balanced against the potential benefits. This systematic approach helps safeguard the welfare of the animals involved and ensures that their use is essential for achieving scientific advancements or testing product safety.

In contrast, a general authorisation for any animal procedure does not reflect the targeted and structured scope of a project licence. Similarly, a temporary licence for research implies a limited timeframe that does not convey the comprehensive nature of a project licence, while permission for personal animal experiments often lacks the regulatory oversight and ethical consideration associated with formal project licences. Thus, the project licence distinctly represents a well-defined and approved framework for conducting scientific work involving animals.