News Postings

The report published on September 13th stresses the continued commitment in Europe and worldwide to find alternative approaches. It is based on the findings of scientific experts who have been assessing the availability of alternative methods and prospects for the future. The Commission's report states that full replacement of animal test methods for all endpoints will not be possible by the 2013 deadline. The lack of full alternatives does not mean that the Commission will propose postponing the deadline. Instead, the European Commission is currently assessing the impacts of the implementation of the full marketing ban by 2013 (environmental, animal welfare, economic and social) and on the basis of that assessment will decide whether or not to make a proposal in relation to the marketing ban. The Commission will announce its final decision by the end of 2011.