Number of animal tests in EU rising
The number of living creatures being used in research experiments is on the rise in the EU despite legislative efforts to restrict such practices.
The latest European Commission report has shown that in 2002 the total number of animals and fish used in all scientific experiments increased by about 917,000 (9.3%) compared with 1999, mainly due to the additional use of about 970,000 fish, while other animal species decreased.
There was a 14% rise in the number of cold-blooded animals for 'fundamental biological studies' including research for 'human medicine, dentistry and veterinary science'.