But BUAV says many countries in the world still test on animals for cosmetics and the group is now pressing for a global ban.

BBC: EU bans sale of all animal-tested cosmetics

"I see the government has promised consultation but I'm doubtful we'll get anything out of it, " Wendy Higgins, from the British Union for the Abolition of Vivisection (Buav), said.

BBC: Mouse,

Alistair Currie, campaigns director for BUAV, said he believed the public should be better informed, but argued that labelling medicines "tested on animals" would just be a statement of fact.

BBC: NEWS | UK | UK Politics | 'Tested on animals' labels urged