Incapable of impartiality

From the archive, first published Thursday 4th Aug 2005.

I was appalled to read the comments by Superintendent Paul Sullivan about the policing of the demonstration against Oxford University's proposed animal laboratory, Police blast at lab protests (Oxford Mail, July 25).

It has long been apparent that Thames Valley Police are incapable of impartiality when it comes to the management of this particular issue.

It is sad that Supt Sullivan felt the need to use the recent atrocities in London as a way of attacking peaceful campaigners.

It goes to show that with no other 'ammunition', those who support the university's policy to expand vivisection must stoop to this tasteless level in an attempt to besmirch those who are against it.

This was the sixth major demonstration against the lab, all of which have been peaceful.

Campaigners continue to be bemused by the level of policing at such events, which they regard (and has been proven) as unnecessary and excessive.

As for the university spokesman's assertions that "billions of people all over the world have had their lives improved as a result of treatments which have, at some stage, involved animals", I suggest she talks to the countless patients who have genuine knowledge and experience of the obscene way in which animal testing has held back medical progress and contributed to and ensured their continued suffering.

JULIET COLLIER

Headington, Oxford

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