European Union Directive on the use of animals in research
The European Parliament is currently passing legislation which
may restrict the use of animals in medical research, which could
slow down progress towards breakthroughs in Parkinson's
research.
The Parkinson's Disease Society understands that there are
sensitive issues surround the use of animals in research and
respect the views of those who hold different positions on this
matter.
However, we believe that currently there is a need for a limited
use of animals, within a rigorous ethical and regulatory framework,
in order to carry out medical research that may lead to effective
treatments and ultimately a cure for Parkinson's.
What we want
We want Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to consider this
legislation very carefully.
The Parkinson's Disease Society is a member of the Association of
Medical Research Charities (AMRC). We are taking part in their
campaign 'Remember the Patients', which aims to help Members of the
European Parliament (MEPs) understand why using animals in research
is so vital. Find out more about this campaign and the EU Directive
from the AMRC
website
Existing rigorous ethical regulatory framework
The use of animals in research is rigorously controlled by strict
UK legislation and guidance from the Home Office.
All researchers involved in studies using animals require a Home
Office licence and the research facilities are regularly inspected
by regulatory authorities.
The 'three Rs'
The PDS strongly supports the 'three Rs', set out by The National
Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in
Research. These are to:
- Reduce the number of animals used in every study to a
minimum
- Replace laboratory animals with non-animal techniques wherever
possible
- Refine the experiments to ensure the most comfortable and
humane conditions possible
Further information about our research
Visit our research pages to find out
more.
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