The Department has no plans to issue further guidance. However, the production of a genetically modified animal, with the intention of substantially altering its nature, is controlled under the terms of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986. This Act is widely viewed as the most rigorous piece of legislation of its type in the world. There are also provisions in the Welfare of Farmed Animals (England) Regulations 2000 and in Northern Ireland the Welfare of Farmed Animals regulations (NI) 2000 to address the welfare concerns arising from both natural and artificial breeding procedures.