IT seems that Sylvia Noble (Letters, August 9) has decided to rewrite medical history to suit her own arguments, as usually happens when animal rights supporters run out of excuses for not appreciating animals for their crucial role in preventing ill health or saving lives.

In the first half of the century, Europe and North America gradually became smallpox-free due to extensive vaccination and containment measures.

The success of vaccination raised the possibility of the global eradication of smallpox, with the last case recorded in 1977.

The discovery of insulin is another shining example of how animals have aided medical advances. There are an estimated 300,000 diabetics in Britain alone who would be dead without this treatment.

Our laws governing animal research are the strictest in the world.

Your correspondent also seems to indicate religious objections to animal research. Our booklet entitled "The Major Religions on Animals In Medical Research" shows that they recognise the contribution animals have made to our health.

Write to SIMR, PO Box 504, Dunstable, Bedfordshire, LU6 2LU.

T BROMLEY (Mr), (address supplied)

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