New animal research centre sets goal of phasing out tests
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Government plans to scale back the use of animals in scientific research announced yesterday were criticised by anti-vivisectionists who said the board overseeing the changes included figures associated with vivisection.
Government plans to scale back the use of animals in scientific research announced yesterday were criticised by anti-vivisectionists who said the board overseeing the changes included figures associated with vivisection.
Lord Sainsbury of Turville, the Science minister, announced the creation of a new national centre that will aim for "three Rs", replacing, refining and reducing the use of animals in scientific experiments.
The board of the new organisation, to be called the National Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research, would only be open to rights organisations that accepted all three Rs, Lord Sainsbury said. "Replacement is the eventual goal of the centre, but so long as the use of animals continues to be necessary, it is essential every effort is made to minimise their use and improve their welfare."
Jan Creamer, of the National Anti-Vivisection Society, said: "This is a missed opportunity for the Government. The people on the board are the same people who have always run animal experiments."
The new centre was welcomed by the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry, but its spokesman warned of the impact on investors if violent protests were not dealt with. "We are asking the Government for specific legislation," he said.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments