Report into multiple neuroscience research procedures on primates sparks RSPCA

CONCERNS have been raised by the RSPCA over a published report into the impact of neuroscience research on primates.

The report, "Review of the assessment of cumulative severity and lifetime experience in non-human primates used in neuroscience research," by the former UK Animal Procedures Committee,  considers the long-term implications of procedures on primates.

RSPCA's chief scientific officer, Maggy Jennings, OBE, said: “It is extremely concerning that this report systematically underestimates the serious impact of neuroscience research on primates and the level of suffering involved.

“How anyone can think that confinement in cages, being subjected to repeated scientific procedures including surgery, the implantation of eye coils or head implants and electrodes, food and water deprivation, long periods of restraint, and the catalogue of other adverse effects listed causes anything other than severe suffering is completely beyond us.

The report provides the first detailed account into this sensitive area of animal research of the nature, incidence and severity of procedures and complications, including their cumulative impact.

According to the Government's Animals in Science Committee, which published the report, the review also identified issues specific to the concepts of cumulative severity and lifetime experience that should be subject to further and future debate.

Maggy Jennings added: "We will be reviewing the report and its recommendations in very close detail to ensure that where constructive recommendations have been made that could reduce primate suffering, that they are immediately implemented.”

www.gov.uk/government/publications/animal-procedures-committee-cumulative-severity-review