In the news
21 Nov 2008
3 November 2006
Dr Hadwen Trust response to Tony Blair's science speech
In response to Tony Blair’s ‘science’ keynote speech on November 3rd 2006 in Oxford, the UK’s leading non-animal medical research charity, the Dr Hadwen Trust, says the Prime Minister must stop his obsessive support of animal experiments and start promoting the future of non-animal research.
Wendy Higgins, Communications Director, says:
“If the Prime Minister really wants to engage young people in science, particularly the biological sciences, he must cease his obsession with defending animal experiments and start engaging positively with non-animal research. Tony Blair’s position on animal use seems to be far more about protecting British business interests rather than sound science. If we are not careful, our policy vacuum on replacing animal tests will see us lagging behind more progressive EU countries like Germany which are far more switched on about the ethical and scientific benefits of a non-animal research future.”
Tony Blair’s science speech took place in Oxford, where the construction of a new animal research facility has resulted in animal rights protest. The Prime Minister’s outspoken defence of animal experiments has become increasingly apparent.
Wendy Higgins says:
“Tony Blair is sadly misguided if he believes that by defending animal experiments he is promoting the best of British science. Britain could lead the way in modern, cutting-edge non-animal techniques and encourage our next generation of scientists to pursue research without animal suffering. We have sophisticated computer models, cell and tissue culture, molecular testing, yet Mr Blair seems determined to keep us rooted in the past.”
ENDS
