MPs demand no watering-down of animal research rules

MPs from all political parties have signed an Early Day Motion calling for the UK to maintain its protection of animals used in research, despite the potential for a slackening under a forthcoming European directive.

Some 17 MPs signed the motion tabled on 13 October. It notes that the transposition of the European directive on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes, which must be implemented by 10 November 2012, could potentially lead to a lowering of UK standards: “For example, reducing the frequency of inspections and lifting restrictions on the use of cats, dogs and horses.”