Blair speaks out in support of Pro-Test
The Prime Minister has entered the controversy over the Oxford animal laboratory by adding his name to the People’s Petition in favour of animal testing.
In an article for the Sunday Telegraph, Tony Blair wrote, “Announcing that I am to add my name to the on-line petition in support of animal testing when necessary is something of a break with tradition - and a sign of just how important I believe it is that as many people as possible stand up against the tiny group of extremists threatening medical research and advances in this country. “Crucially, we are now seeing a change in public attitudes as well as the law.
We are now seeing very welcome signs of both individuals and firms being ready to stand up publicly to intimidation and making clear this tiny extremist fringe is out of touch with public opinion.” The petition, set up by the Coalition for Medical Progress, has already been signed by 16,000 members of the public. Blair also publicly declared his support for Pro-Test, the Oxfordbased group set up in response to the growing extremism of the animal rights protests.
He said, “One example of the changed climate… was the pro-test demonstration held in Oxford, which is soon to be repeated and deserves support.” The group is run by a committee of Oxford dons and students, along with its founder Laurie Pycroft.
Iain Simpson, spokesman for the group said, “Pro-Test welcomes Tony Blair’s decision to support scientific research on animals which saves countless lives, and we hope that he will continue to show support for animal research rather than simply confining himself to condemning acts of terrorism.” Founder of Pro-Test Laurie Pycroft said, “I think it is fantastic that Tony Blair and the Government is able to come out overtly in favour of Pro-Test and the animal labs. Now, we want more.
In March over 800 students, staff and members of the public marched in favour of Pro-Test and the construction of the animal laboratories. A further march will be held on Saturday 3 June in the city. However, Blair’s decision to come out in favour of Oxford’s pro-lab movements has provoked an angry response from animal rights activists.
Robin Webb, spokesman for the Animal Liberation Front, told The Oxford Student, “This is the latest in a long line of irresponsible things that Tony Blair has done. He is a qualified lawyer not a qualified scientist.” He continued, “The intelligent thing for Mr Blair to have done would have been to finally keep his promise from the 1997 election to hold a Royal Commission, which would allow both sides to present their arguments in the proper fashion.
As with all promises in nine years of Labour, this promise has been broken.” Dr Evan Harris, MP for Oxford West and Abingdon has criticised the government’s lack of action on the issue. He said, “Mr Blair needs to do more than sign petitions. He needs to sign cheques that will ensure that the police and the intelligence services have the resources to break open the extremist movement.
Pro-Test group has invited Mr Blair to a public debate on Monday to discuss the case for animal research. Alastair Fraser, Public Meeting Organiser of Pro-Test, said, “We are delighted that the PM wants to join our campaign, and this is an ideal chance for him to prove his commitment to animal testing.” Pycroft said, “It would be great if Tony Blair could attend our meeting or our next march, to turn his words into action.”
18th May 2006