Mr Raj Jugernauth?s article on Mauritian monkeys for export in l?express samedi gives rise to many questions. First of all, although he mentions that Air Mauritius has stopped transporting monkeys because of pressure from animal rights activists, he pays scant attention to the great controversy surrounding the whole issue of using animals [especially primates, our closest relatives] in medical experiments. Nor does he mention that these unfortunate creatures are destined for what can only be an unpleasant and painful end at the hands of researchers - who incidentally receive regular death-threats from activists because of the work they do. Mauritius is a haven from the real world? unless you happen to be a monkey up for export.

While it is certain that there are powerful arguments on both sides of the controversy, if this highly lucrative business is set to expand, as Mr Jugernauth confidently predicts, the people of Mauritius should be made aware of all its ethical implications. And we might also expect some action from the authorities, including the MSPCA.

Then, many points are left unclear ? are captured monkeys in fact exported? Is there any other market for them within the country apart from the breeders? What is a ?trappeur independant??-maybe there is an official trade-union for monkey-catchers but I must admit I haven?t seen it on the MBC yet? How do poachers come into the picture? Who sells monkeys to whom?

The excellent conditions of hygiene at the Griffiths? breeding-station are no doubt highly commendable - but, on the other hand, there can?t be much of a market for unhealthy animals! So much the better if breeders are now going public. However, the question remains as to why breeding-stations have been strictly top secret so far.

But the first prize has to go to the gallant Mr. Nazir Jaffar, monkey catcher by profession, for cheerfully admitting he forgot to feed the monkeys he captured! It was good to learn that they bit him before escaping. May they long enjoy their freedom in the forests of Mauritius!

Annie MALOVER