In the United Kingdom (UK), more than 70 organizations have agreed to increase public understanding about the importance of animal research by becoming signatories on the "Concordat on Openness on Animal Research in the UK." Those groups supporting this "Concordat" include universities, pharmaceutical and biotech companies, health charities, scientific societies, and associations. Four commitments are presented in this document as follows:
- We will be clear about when, how and why we use animals in research;
- We will enhance our communications with the media and the public about our research using animals;
- We will be proactive in providing opportunities for the public to find out about research using animals;
- We will report on progress annually and share our experiences.
The full text of the "Condordat on Openness on Animal Research in the UK" is available online.
Geoff Watts, chair of the group that steered the development of the statement, said "I am convinced that it will result in there being much more opportunity for the public to find out about the reality of animal research in this country."