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The statistics compiled by the Office of National Statistics provide and insight into the shockingly high level of animal testing in the UK.1
- In 2010, over half of the animals used in scientific procedures were genetically modified or harmful mutants.
- Even excluding breeding to produce genetically modified (GM) and harmful mutants (HM), the level of animal testing still remains 4% higher than in 2000.
- Non-human primates were used in 4,688 procedures started in 2010. An increase of 10% on the previous year.
- Universities continue to outstrip other sectors. In 2010, the sector alone performed 48% of animal experiments in the UK. An increase of 10% on the previous year.
New hi-tech alternatives prove their worth....
Animal procedures in safety testing (toxicology) fell by 11% in 2010. In part due to the use of hi-tech, non-animal methods, reducing the need for animals to be used in safety testing. For example: applying alternative methods to Shellfish Toxin Testing uses 33% fewer mice.
Given the funding, new hi-tech alternatives can deliver sizeable reductions in the number of animals used. Sustained, high level investments in alternatives is vital if this is to be realised. We strongly urge the coalition to consider the introduction of additional funding streams, such as the Animal Procedures Duty proposed by Naturewatch.
1 The UK is the second highest user of animals in experiments in Europe. EC Commission 2008.
To read the Naturewatch Press Release click here.
For overviews of the issues and trends underpinning the soaring level of animal testing in the UK, click on the links below.
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