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Animal testing backed by 500 UK scientists

Posted on: Wednesday, 24 August 2005, 03:40 CDT

LONDON (Reuters) - More than 500 leading British scientists and doctors gave their backing to animal testing on Wednesday, a day after a farm targeted by activists said it would stop breeding guinea pigs for medical research.

The declaration, drawn up by the Research Defense Society (RDS), said a small but vital part of work into new medicines involved the use of animals.

Signatories included three Nobel laureates, 190 Fellows of the Royal Society and the Medical Royal Colleges, and more than 250 academic professors.

"It shows the strength and depth of support for humane animal research in this country," said RDS Executive Director Simon Festing.

Animal research is a highly emotive topic in Britain, which is home to a vocal and at times violent animal rights lobby.

Violent actions have provoked warnings by the pharmaceutical industry that the hostile environment could undermine investment in research and development in the UK.

The Darley Oaks Farm in Staffordshire, central England, which breeds guinea pigs for use in laboratories, has been the subject of one of the most sustained harassment campaigns.

The family owners said on Tuesday they would cease work following a long and violent campaign by rights protesters which included the desecration of a family grave.

The RDS declaration comes 15 years after a similar pledge supporting animal research by the British Association for the Advancement of Science.

Source: REUTERS

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