Use of animals in research under the spotlight

The League of European Research Universities has underlined its support for the EU animal use directive, while a storm has erupted over alleged mistreatment of animals at the Free University of Brussels.

The EU directive for the protection of animals used for scientific purposes, adopted in 2010 and due for review by November 2017, is serving its intended purpose, Leru said in a statement on 5 December.

The directive’s scope is “appropriate and relevant”, and it has been successful in improving transparency, Leru said. However, its contribution to the review also called for fewer administrative burdens and greater support for training.