Animal activists out again
Colleges and University buildings were seriously disturbed by the march of animal rights activists SPEAK on Saturday afternoon.
Approximately 100 people marched in the protest, part of an ongoing campaign against the building of a new animal research hotel on South Parks Road. They were calling for the release of the 'Oxford two' - a pair of monkeys whom they claim have been submitted to 15 years of 'exploitation' in brain experiments by the University's vivisection labs.
The University, however, denies that the monkeys are still alive. University registrar David Holmes claims that the monkeys in question were "put down four years ago" and "humanely killed".
While the scientists are happy to discuss the issues they are not prepared "to debate with those who advocate intimidation of people engaged in lawful activities".
In fear of potential intimidation, employees in the Science Area had their actions severely restricted, and the march also had an impact on activity in other areas of the University.
Hertford in particular had heightened security, which included the locking of all gates, requiring any visitors to have pre-arranged appointments, and warning students to challenge anyone unfamiliar trying to enter.
During the previous march at the end of Hilary, damage was done to both Brasenose and Balliol colleges. The police also took the threat seriously, linking up college CCTV cameras to the police control room centre and putting on standby a number of quick response teams.
Saturday's march ended without violence or incident in contrast to other such demonstrations.
Animal rights groups have recently been buoyed after the success of their campaigns against Huntingdon Life Sciences and Cambridge University.
While the plans and building of the labs continue, it would appear that we should still expect to see future demonstrations in Oxford.
The University say they are committed to reducing animal testing wherever possible, arguing that the new building would replace
current animal housing with an environment far better suited for animal care.
20th May 2004