Letter: Why animal testing is 'vital' (3)

It is tedious having to debate the value of animal research because of misleading letters from spurious organisations claiming medical expertise. A new book in support of animal experiments in the United States argues that we should expose these charlatans.

Europeans for Medical Advancement is little more than a fundraising front for a US anti-vivisection group. It does no medical research and lacks relevant knowledge.

Let us be honest. There is an overwhelming scientific consensus that animal research has led to huge benefits for human health. It remains vital if we are to find new treatments and cures for diseases. The priority now is to ensure high animal welfare standards and the ethical treatment of animals.

Simon Festing
Association of Medical Research Charities