Leading scientist threatens to resign over honours debacle

In a row over the honours list, the UK government has moved to confirm its support for researchers involved in animal experiments, after Colin Blakemore, the head of the Medical Research Council (MRC), threatened to resign.

Professor Blakemore said his position had become untenable after the disclosure in leaked government documents that he was denied an honour because of his high profile connections with animal experimentation.

“My main concern is that the mission statement of the MRC includes a specific commitment to engagement with the public on issues relating to medical research. I made it clear when I was appointed …