European Directive 86/609/EEC that
was implemented into U.K. legislation through the introduction of Animals
(Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 is to be replaced by European Directive
2010/63/EU. This new Directive came into force in November 2010, but, as is usual,
a two year period is allowed for drafting of transposing legislation which must
be completed by November 10th this year and implemented by 1st
January 2013. The transposing legislation is said to be taking into account a
large public and interested body consultation.
The new legislation is to iron
out the variations in the previous implementation process and to strengthen the
“3Rs”: Replace, reduce and refine, of the use of animals in scientific
research. However, the U.K. Government intends to retain current, stricter standards,
which exceed Annex III to the Directive, and retain special protection for dogs,
cats and horses, and non-human primates.
Worryingly, the U.K. Government
wishes to explore opportunities to simplify the detail of personal licence
authorities, while reassuring us that this will not lead to a reduction in
protection. The U.K. will not be implementing less
frequent inspections than are currently undertaken in the UK.
Vet Juris welcomes any
legislation that enhances the welfare of animals. However, we are puzzled; what
moral or ethical code would allow rats, rabbits, ferrets, mice and other mammals to be
subjected conditions or to experimental procedures that are too noxious for cats, dogs,
equids and non-human primates? Is this just species-ism? Maybe, rabbits and the
such just don’t mind having cosmetics and cleaning products put in their eyes.The Government's plans can be seen at this web site:
www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/about-us/consultations/transposition-protection-animals/
The full text of the Directive can be seen at this web site:
Stop press.
The government are now considering legislation to allow stray, unclaimed pets to be used in scientific research; despite the above assurances.
© VJ 2012
