Royal Society Responds To EU Directive On Animals In Research

Main Category: Veterinary
Also Included In: Public Health;  Biology / Biochemistry
Article Date: 05 Nov 2008 - 10:00 PDT

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"Modern biology is hugely dependent on the use of animals in research. Not only has the use of animals in research contributed to our understanding of how the human body works and the development of treatments and medicines that reduce human suffering and save lives, but it is also vital to progress in veterinary medicine.

There is a need to update EU legislation to ensure an appropriate balance between animal welfare and scientific advancement.

We are pleased that the proposals for changes to the EU Directive published today acknowledge that, for the immediate future, there is a need for the use of non-human primates in areas of research such as communicable disease, neuroscience and reproductive biology. It is especially important that this applies to both clinical and basic research.

Additionally, we are concerned by plans to extend the species covered by the Directive to certain classes of invertebrates and further suggestions that controls be brought in for climate management in animal housing. These changes have the potential to create an unworkable administrative burden disproportionate to any gain in animal welfare.

It is important that the Directive balances benefits to humans with animal welfare for the greater good of both. As a means of achieving that balance, the Society strongly endorses the principle of the 3Rs: to replace, refine and reduce the use of animals in research where possible."

The Royal Society