I was encouraged to see the reply from Professors Millar and Savill to David Martin's attack on animal experimentation (Letters, November 13). I am absolutely certain that no-one wishes to see needless experimentation on any animal and perhaps even less so, if that is possible, on primates.

However, there are several things that Mr Martin and your readers should consider. First, that this research is designed to improve the lot of people suffering from appalling diseases with, as yet, unmet medical need. He must also be aware that research is conducted on computer models and cell and tissue structures where possible. The people who conduct this research are so often vilified in the media, yet their goal is our increased wellbeing.

The other key issue for us that we must also consider and be proud of is that Scottish universities were at the heart of the spread and development of scientifically-based medical education and research during the Scottish Enlightenment. Make no mistake, our forebears' desire to improve the lot of many across the globe was indirectly responsible for saving and improving the lives of many millions.

It would be a folly for us to allow European politicians to damage our heritage and one of the few shining lights left in what his ex-colleague, Tony Blair, called "the knowledge-based economy". It is almost unbelievable that as we move into harsher economic times that we would allow Mr Martin's short-sightedness to damage one of the few real Scottish jewels and just claimant to be a sector with competitive advantage on the global stage. I urge all your readers to exercise their franchise accordingly in the European elections next year.

Jim Swift BA MSc MIHM, Conservative councillor, Newton Mearns South, East Renfrewshire Council.