UK Government issues ‘Replacing Animals in Science’ strategy
On 11 November, the UK Government issued its ‘Replacing Animals in Science‘ strategy. Lush Prize has yet to analyse the strategy in full, and while we greatly welcome the publication of this ‘first of its kind’ commitment towards better science and acknowledge the work involved to date, we see it as very much a first step to phase out the use of animals in research and testing, with a need for clearer timelines and firmer targets, for example beyond safety testing into basic and applied research where the vast majority of animals continue to be used.
At Lush Prize we are privileged to see first hand the dynamic and forward-thinking work of scientists, campaigners and educators in industry and academia across the UK and worldwide, to develop and promote urgently needed new approaches in animal-free science which – with the right investment, recognition and legal framework – would accelerate the UK’s position to global leader in scientific innovation.
Again, we greatly welcome the publication of the new strategy, but see that much more can be done and will continue to monitor Government activities closely to see the strategy put into action and extended to ensure full replacement – or, where equally appropriate, avoidance – of animal use in research.
Below are some links to the initial comments of leading UK NGOs to the government strategy report:
Spread the word: