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Animal Experiments: official statistics for 2003Another rise in number of animals used - and an upsurge in primate usage |
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As expected, the statistics for animal experiments performed in 2003, released on September 8, reveal an increase in numbers. Moreover the number of genetically modified procedures have continued to increase at a steady rate, and now form more than a quarter of all experiments, compared to less than 10% in 1995. Whereas last year it could have been argued that the overall numbers have remained roughly constant since 1995, and that the figures for 2002 were therefore a statistical blip, the continued increase in 2003 suggests that this is the start of the upward trend that has been expected for some time. However, the really bad news - as is ever the case - is buried in the details: the numbers of primates used in 2003 are up 20% compared to 2002. Worse still, this comes in the context of increasing pressure from the scientific community for more animals to be used, rather than fewer. The New Scientist, on 21 August 2004, in an article on a study of primate use in medical research, reported that many scientists are calling for more primates to be used in research. This reflects a callous disregard for the welfare of the animals themselves. These statistics show, in stark terms, the task facing the government: unless they make some serious efforts, they will preside over increases in animal experiments, not decresases. When the General Election comes, do they really want to have a worse record on animal experiments than the previous Conservative regimes? |
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| The new Centre for the 3Rs was a welcome boost for research into the reduction, refinement and replacement of animals in experiments. However, the long-term credibility of the Centre - and of the Government in this area - rests upon this Centre delivering results. The most urgent need is for action on primate experiments. The Centre should make this its top priority. | ||
