Oscar nominated actor calls for University of Bristol to end “horrific” test on animals
The test, which aims to help develop antidepressants, has had its validity questioned
In a letter written to the University of Bristol, Oscar-nominated actor Richard E Grant has urged for a forced swimming test to be put to a stop.
Grant calls the test, which involves placing small animals in containers of water, “horrific” and says “he can only imagine how terrified rats must feel”.
He further adds that “it makes no sense for the university to continue to use an experiment that is both distressing for animals and irrelevant to humans”.
The group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) have explained that the forced swim test is used to understand the human biology of stress and anxiety but claim its use is irrelevant, with research showing the test cannot predict the abilities of antidepressant drugs.
PETA go on to say that discussions with “15 companies and over a dozen universities” have led to many putting an end to their use of the test, calling for the University of Bristol to do the same.
Richard E Grant also stresses the claims of PETA after stating “he couldn’t believe it” when he heard Bristol still use the forced swim test, “more than any other university in the country”.
The actor makes further calls for the University of Bristol to put an end to their use of the test after the changes made by various other universities and pharmaceutical companies.
A University of Bristol spokesperson said: “We recognise there are differing views about the use of animals in research, including some concerns around whether it is ethical.
“The University of Bristol has a successful track record of translating scientific discoveries into real-world advances.
"Wherever possible we rely on non-animal methods for example computer models, cells grown in the laboratory or human volunteers.
"When these methods are not suitable to address the scientific gaps, and therefore only when absolutely necessary, we use animals in research to improve our understanding of health and disease in both humans and animals.
"This includes cardiovascular and cancer research, diseases associated with infection and immunity and, in the case of forced swimming, significant advances in the understanding of stress-related disorders.
“We are committed to a culture of openness and transparency regarding the research carried out here at Bristol, ensuring the animals are treated with compassion and respect.
"We keep up to date with the latest thinking on all aspects of research using animals (including advances in welfare) and have robust and thorough ethical review processes in place for every project.”