The work we do is performed with compassion, care, humanity and humility. All my rabbits, when I worked with them years ago, were stroked and petted every day. Their contribution changed the understanding of ectopic pregnancy – the commonest cause of maternal death worldwide. My genetically modified rodents breed happily, and their offspring are indistinguishable from those of other rats and mice. Medical researchers are compassionate people seeking to alleviate pain and suffering. They are unlikely to do anything that is unnecessary or cruel. Indeed, they are not allowed to, because of the rigour with which animal licences are.
