What are your views on animal testing?
Like most people I do not like seeing animals used for experimentation whenever possible. I was pleased that we (the Labour government) managed to end the use of animals for cosmetic testing.
However, I have looked into the issue very carefully about the use of animals in medical experiments. I support the use of alternative methods wherever possible, but in some cases it is absolutely necessary to use animals. My concern is that all measures are taken to ensure this is within strict guidelines and that where any alternative is available it should always be used.
Last updated April 2003
Use of pig organs for transplant
- Letter from Joan Ryan MP (PDF, 429K)
letter from the minister addressing concerns re the use of pig organs for transplant experiments