RSPCA: Urgent need to replace animals in experiments highlighted by another drop in public support
Results of a new poll commissioned by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills reveal a further drop in public support for animal experiments and show that it’s more vital than ever to make replacing animal use a much higher priority, the RSPCA said today (Friday).
RSPCA senior scientist Dr Penny Hawkins said: “These results reflect a deep public concern about animals who suffer in the name of science. If the scientific community really wants to address these concerns, it will have to be more honest about the harms caused to animals – which can be very severe – and not just talk about the potential benefits of research. The public quite rightly won’t buy the spin if they believe animal suffering is glossed over.”
The new poll result is announced as the RSPCA is urging the Government to make certain that forthcoming new regulations on animal use in the UK ensure that the necessity and justification for animal use are properly scrutinised, and that animal numbers and suffering are reduced to a minimum, with high welfare standards while animal use continues.
Dr Hawkins said: “This continuing fall in public support for animal experiments comes against the backdrop of a worrying decade-long rise in animal use in the UK. The new law must send a crystal clear message that standards for licensing research and caring for animals will not be relaxed in any way. The Government needs to be clear that cutting corners to the detriment of animal welfare will not be tolerated.
“The Government needs to do more to implement its own pledge to reduce animal use and scientists need to recognise their own responsibilities to support and achieve this goal – including much more effort to replace animals with humane alternatives. Talk is cheap. It’s time to deliver.”
An additional concerning development is that the number of Home Office inspectors has decreased from 24.7 full-time equivalents in 2007 to just 19 in 2011. Even just between 2010 and 2011 there has been a 27.6% fall in the number of visits made to establishments by Home Office inspectors (down from 1,984 to 1,437).
Dr Hawkins said: “The RSPCA has a great deal of respect for the Home Office inspectorate. We believe the reduction in numbers and resourcing will seriously affect their ability to carry out all of their current roles, which could result in standards slipping in some establishments. This risks further undermining public confidence in the control of animal experiments. The RSPCA wants to see increased, rather than reduced, inspectorate numbers and resources.”
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RSPCA, Wilberforce Way, Southwater, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 9RS
Press office direct lines: 0300 123 0244/0288 Fax: 0303 123 0099
Duty press officer (evenings and weekends) Tel 08448 222888 and ask for pager number 828825
Email: press@rspca.org.uk Website: www.rspca.org.uk
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