A Hampshire MP has backed calls to prevent stray animals being experimented on.

Under new proposals from an EU directive, the government could have allowed the use by scientists of lost or abandoned cats and dogs.

The British Union for the Abolition of Vivisection (BUAV) has campaigned against the move – a call which has been backed by Eastleigh MP Chris Huhne .

After pressure from the BUAV and MPs, the Government has said that they “could not currently envisage” allowing tests on stray animals.

Mr Huhne said, "I'm delighted that the Government have listened to campaigners on this issue and applied common sense.

“It's clear that the original plan to allow stray animals to be used in experiments would be barbaric and a step backwards for animal welfare in this country.

"I hope the Government will now go further and ensure the protection of stray animals against experimentation."