The BUAV recently asked several universities – under the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act – for a summary of their research on primates (monkeys and apes). Our intention was to create an accurate picture of primate experiments today.

Although we were not interested in who the researchers were or commercially sensitive information, we were disappointed to find that several institutions refused our request. These universities relied upon an exemption in the FOI Act, which allows public authorities to withhold information if its disclosure would represent a risk to the health and safety of individuals.

You will have read in the press how intimidating behaviour by a minority of activists has caused genuine anxiety. The BUAV does not support this behaviour and we maintain our long-standing honest, professional and non-violent approach. However, it should be recognised that the scale of the problem has been grossly exaggerated by the media and the research community. The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry reported that there was not a single violent incident last year.

It should also be recognised that researchers at these universities voluntarily publish articles about some of their research. They put their names to the articles and summarise what they do to primates and for what purpose. They cannot therefore sensibly argue that the information requested by the BUAV would add to any risk that already exists.

BUAV Chief Executive, Michelle Thew says:

“We see this stonewalling by the universities as part of a cynical attempt by some researchers to control the public debate about animal experiments. It leaves us with no option but to undertake costly undercover investigations to expose the truth about animal experiments.

We have lodged complaints against Cambridge University, Oxford University, King's College London, University College London, Manchester and Nottingham Universities, for refusing to give information on their primate research under the FOI Act. This has attracted widespread media interest, fuelling public concern for the welfare of primates.

We hope to encourage greater transparency in the future. We need a clear picture of animal testing today, in order to present the facts to decision makers, and facilitate an informed and reasoned debate on animal research and the suffering it causes. We will of course update you as the outcome unfolds."