Cambridge University has axed plans for a controversial primate centre to conduct animal research into brain diseases.However, the centre could still be built elsewhere, possibly at a location more protected from action by anti-vivisectionists. The UK Prime Minister Tony Blair had backed the plan as being “of national importance”.The university blames “escalating costs” caused by years of delays and security concerns for its decision to axe the centre. But it is being accused by many of having buckled under a sustained campaign from animal-rights activists who opposed the centre from the outset. “This is a serious blow for British medical research,” says Mark Matfield of the Research Defence Society, which argues in favour of animal experiments. “These delays and security concerns were caused by orchestrated threats and intimidation.”
