HAYES and Harlington MP John McDonnell, joined more than 30 other MPs at a reception in Parliament to show support for a plan to phase out animal experiments.
Titled A Roadmap for Non-Animal Science in the UK, it showcased a report by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).
The event was sponsored by Bob Blackman and attended by other MPs, as well as actor Jamie Bamber, a long-time PETA supporter.
“Animal experiments are both outdated and incompatible with a society that values compassion and progress,” said Mr McDonnell, the former Shadow Chancellor who now sits as an Independent MP.
“It’s distressing to know that animals, such as dogs with whom we share our homes, are still subjected to unthinkable experiments.
“We urgently need a clear roadmap to phase out experiments on animals in all forms and focus on humane, human-relevant methods.
“By doing this, we protect animals and ensure that science advances for the benefit of all.”
PETA science policy adviser Kimberley Jayne added: “Every year, millions of mice, rats, fish, dogs, monkeys, rabbits, and other animals are caged, subjected to physical and psychological torment and killed in unreliable experiments that do little to advance human health.
“PETA is calling on the Government to commit to ending all experiments on animals.
"It must stop wasting money and lives on archaic animal experimentation and switch to modern research methods that actually help people.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here