With reference to your article (Science friction', May 15), the closing of part or all of the National Institute for Medical Research in Mill Hill will be welcomed by many animal welfare supporters.

It is at this establishment that many thousands of innocent animals have been tortured in the name of science.

Animal experimentation is scientifically flawed, because animals are very different to humans, and react in different ways.

It has been proven time and time again that animal models lead to misleading results. Animals are still used in Mill Hill for research, but because of the secrecy at such establishments, we don't know the full extent of their use. The only sadness when this establishment closes down will be for all those thousands of animals that have lost their lives there.

Brian Jacobs, chairman

Animal Aid

Great Bushey Drive, Totteridge