In Japan there is no law regulating
animal experimentation with a view toward protecting
the animals. Only a standard about the raising and keeping
of animals for experimentation that was established in
1980 exists.
However,this standard refers
only to the management of animals and does not include
the issue of animal welfare and protection.
We think that this standard
should be revised thoroughly.
Standard about raising
and keeping of animals for experimentation (Japan)
(Notice by the Prime Minister's
Office in 1980)
1.Neither compulsory
power nor effective power
As a basic rule, obeying a standard is just a goal to reach by making efforts.
There is no compulsory power to make people obey the standard.
Moreover,there is no concrete and clear standard to obey so that each facility
regulates itself voluntarily.
2. Few concrete instances/diction
In many clauses, there are dictions such as "as
occasion calls""necessary measure"and "proper". However, these phrases are not defined.
3. No definition about
animal experimentation
There is no description that animal experimentation is an act which gives
pain and sufferings to animals.
While European and American law and EU standard clearly refers to the lessening
of sufferings,reduction of unnecessary experimentation and the necessity
of alternative method, in Japan's standard there is no mention of these issues.
4.Lack of the viewpoint
for animal welfare
Consideration of the sufferings that animals get is limited.
In the transporting, experimenting
and disposing of animals it refers to efforts that should
be made "as much as possible" by people.
5. Lack of education
and training system for experimenters.
Everyone is allowed
to experiment on animals.
6.No necessity for keeping
and publishing the record
There is no obligation to record and publish the number and kind of animals
at facilities for experimentation.
7.No watching system for experimentation
There is neither obligation to report to authorities nor authorities
right to investigate the facilities.
JAPANEASE
