WHATEVER happened to democracy in this country?

Normally, if the public opposes a new development, and in turn the local council also refuse it, that is normally the end of the matter.

However, if the Government has financial gain resting on it, what a different kettle of fish this becomes.

I am, of course, talking about Cambridge University's application to build a new primate 'research' centre. Despite being rejected twice, the Government has now decided that it alone will decide the third and final application.

Considering Tony Blair has already publicly given his full backing for the proposed lab, a biased outcome is inevitable.

The lab was rejected by the local council twice as it recognised the futility of animal experiments.

Unfortunately, animal experiments are far more profitable than more accurate and humane methods of research. When will this Government start putting people's health before money?

For more information on the campaign against the proposed centre, please visit www.x-cape.org.uk, and www.animalaid.org.uk

Sarah Shaw,

Gordon Street, York.

Updated: 10:27 Tuesday, December 31, 2002