The RSPCA reports that the UK’s welfare standards for laboratory animals are under threat from a new EU directive, which could result in reduced inspections of laboratories, some animals suffering ‘severe’ pain and distress, and inhumane methods of killing. An online tool launched by the RSPCA today can help concerned members of the public stop this happening. The UK public only has until the 5th September to have their say.
What you can do now...
Go to www.giveanimalsavoice.org.uk and tell the government not to take a step back for lab animals. Tell family and friends who care for animals using our new ‘sharing tool’ on the website, or use the #LabAnimals hashtag .
The directive would see uniform regulations enforced across Europe, improving standards in some member countries. However, the UK standards are already much higher than those proposed. Despite the directive potentially causing a big step backwards for animal welfare in the UK, the RSPCA is concerned that the government will comply simply to save on paperwork and reduce regulation.
Dr Maggy Jennings, head of the RSPCA’s research animals department, said: “We urge the Government to respect public concern on this issue and, at the very least, maintain the level of regulation that we currently have. If they don’t, animal welfare, public confidence and ultimately UK science will suffer”.
