MEPs have voted to phase-out testing on animals for cosmetic products over the next 10 years.

Labour MEP and consumer affairs spokesman in the parliament, Philip Whitehead, said: "The parliament wants to put an end to cosmetic testing and there are times when members of the parliament vote with their consciences, especially on big issues such as this one, and that is what happened."

Forum Response: RSPCA

Marlou Heinen, deputy head of the RSPCA's international department, said: "We are happy that the European Parliament has made its position clear that animal testing for cosmetics must end, reflecting the strong demands of the public across Europe.

"But it is disappointing that despite the Parliament's environment committee's call for a complete ban after five years, exemptions may be allowed for up to another five years for up to three tests.

"The RSPCA's campaign has been successful in Brussels and several EU Member States. Now we need to make sure that the UK government will take into account public opinion that it is unacceptable for animals to suffer and die in tests for more so-called 'new' and 'improved' cosmetics.

"It is vital that in the Council of Ministers the UK supports a complete ban on the sale of new cosmetics tested on animals after five years as well as a ban on tests on animals."

Forum Response: National Anti-Vivisection Society

Jan Creamer, director of the NAVS, told ePolitix.com: "The NAVS is delighted to hear of the courageous vote of MEPs to ban the sale of animal tested cosmetics, despite pressure from the UK government.

"Thousands of animals suffer and die in these unreliable, unethical, and unnecessary tests. Congratulations to the MEPs involved."