Responses to the study launch: November 2009

Lord Drayson, then Minister for Science and Innovation, said,

• ‘These animals can play a key role in advancing new therapies for currently incurable diseases. But for these therapies to ever see the light of day, we must ensure the public is on board. ‘The Government takes public dialogue extremely seriously. That’s why we are supporting this study where scientists and the public can make their voices heard.’

Dr Jon Richmond, Head of the Animals Scientific Procedures Division at the Home Office, said,

• ‘The Home Office welcomes this study and the valuable contribution it will make to the wider public understanding of the complex ethical, scientific and animal welfare issues involved in this area of research.’

Sir Leszek Borysiewicz FRS FMedSci, Chief Executive of the Medical Research Council said,

• ‘This is a fantastic opportunity to uncover the real views of the public on this particularly emotive area of science. Advances in research, particularly in areas like stem cell research, are increasing the need for more sophisticated animal models to help develop human therapies. As responsible scientists we need to know where the public comfort level lies with using animals containing human material. We need to uncover the boundaries but also clearly explain the importance and impact of the research that requires these animal models. It's right that scientists have initiated this ethical debate and that we fully explore the impact of our work in this area.’

Sir Mark Walport FMedSci, Director, Wellcome Trust said,

• ‘We are pleased to be supporting this Academy of Medical Sciences study into animals containing human material. It is vitally important that we explore the scientific potential of research using animals containing human material, while at the same time taking account of the social, ethical, legal and safety issues. We especially welcome the significant programme of public dialogue included in the study, which will bring together views of scientists and the public.’