Ethics of research involving animalsMarch 17, 2003The Nuffield Council on Bioethics today announced a new Working Party to consider the ethics of research involving animals. There is considerable discomfort about the use of animals in research, but also a widespread acceptance of the need to do more medical research, which currently involves the use of animals. "We believe there is a need for a rigorous ethical debate on the topic. We recognise that people feel very deeply about research involving animals and we hope to engage with these concerns," commented Baroness Perry of Southwark, Chair of the Working Party. The members of the Working Party bring a variety of perspectives to the discussion of this controversial topic, with backgrounds including animal welfare, philosophy, science, law and veterinary practice. The range of expertise will allow an open and informed debate of the issues. The Working Party will also hold a series of fact-finding meetings and will consult with the public using a variety of methods during the summer of 2003. A major focus of the Working Party will be on the increasing use of genetically modified (GM) animals. The number of GM animals used in research has risen tenfold in the last decade and the welfare implications for animals which have been designed for particular research purposes will be considered. Fundamental questions will be discussed. Does research involving animals yield information which is applicable to humans? Are there valid alternatives? Are there morally relevant distinctions between different species such as mosquitoes, mice and monkeys? If so, how should these differences be reflected in regulations? Can the welfare of different animals be reliably assessed? The Council expects to publish a Report on the topic in early 2005. Nuffield Council on Bioethics |
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