January 21, 2003

scientists comment on House of Lords animal research report

These comments were collected in light of the Government response to the report of the House of Lords Select Committee on ‘Animals in Scientific Procedures’.

Dr Simon Festing of the Association of Medical Research Charities, said:

“Patients suffering from appalling diseases like cancer or cystic fibrosis will be thankful that the Minister has chosen to boost confidence in British medical research.

“The absurd anti-vivisection agenda of abolishing life-saving medical research involving animals is being systematically shredded before our eyes.”

Professor Nancy Rothwell, University of Manchester, said:

“This looks like a very sensible response from the government, which should provide greater openness about animal research whilst continuing to safeguard scientists from animal rights extremists. Obviously, the details need to be thought through carefully and we look forward to working with the government to get this right.”

Dr Mark Matfield, of the Research Defence Society, said:

“We support the proposal to publish information about all new project licences. This will make animal research in the UK more open and transparent than anywhere else in the world. This can only be a good thing and should go a long way to show the public that we only use animals for important medical research and development, and that these animals are used ethically and humanely.

“This will be an important and far-sighted step for UK medical researchers. Clearly, the lack of openness surrounding animal research in the UK has led the public to assume that we have something to hide. Now they will be able to see that is not the case.”

Brigadier Michael R Koe OBE, Chief Executive of the Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Association, said:

“Without animal research, cures for disabling, distressing and eventually fatal disease like progressive supranuclear palsy will not be found in my lifetime. Anyone who feels such research is morally wrong should not seek for themselves or their families any treatment developed through the use of animals.”