We are calling on stricter regulations to prevent research groups conducting cruel and unnecessary animal tests following disturbing news that German carmakers were responsible for tests which forced monkeys to inhale toxic car fumes.

In 2014 German car manufacturers Volkswagen, BMW and Daimler funded an experiment which involved subjecting caged monkeys to poisonous car fumes for several hours while they watched TV. The test was intended to prove claims that a new generation of diesel engines were cleaner than previous models.

The experiment was commissioned by the European Research Group on Environment and Health in the Transport Sector (EUGT) and took place in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The research was never completed and the results were never published. Since details of the shocking experiment were revealed by the New York Times all three car manufacturers have criticised the tests and an inquiry has been launched.

Dr Katy Taylor, Director of Science and Regulatory Affairs at Cruelty Free International, said: “The public are rightfully shocked that such experiments could be permitted to take place. Monkeys are intelligent and sensitive animals who demonstrate the same emotions as humans. They can suffer and experience fear, depression, anxiety and pain just like we do. There is absolutely no scientific or ethical justification to subject these poor animals to such cruel and needless experiments. We want to see a review held into this research and better measures in place to prevent unnecessary animal suffering happening again.”