n ALAN Cook (You Say, November 13) is right in saying that RSPCA is not an animal rights organisation - the RSPCA is an animal welfare charity.

The RSPCA was set up as an animal welfare charity in 1824 to promote kindness and prevent or suppress cruelty to animals. The many organisations and individuals who promote the cause of animals today hold a wide range of views ranging from strict animal rights to general animal welfare.

Both these approaches are strongly compassionate, emphasising humane treatment and prevention of animal suffering. Animal welfare focuses on physical and mental well-being of animals where as animal rights is a philosophy concerned with the status of animals in relation to Mankind.

The RSPCA believes that animals should be properly cared for and we do not support any activity, which causes unjustified and unnecessary suffering. Animal rights supporters believe that there is a moral obligation not just to be kind to animals, but that humans should not exploit animals in any way.

However, many people who are concerned about animals feel that it is acceptable for animals to be killed for food (or clothing) or used in research if the benefit to humans is considered great enough. It is in these areas that the greatest divisions lie between animal rights and animal welfare.

As a charity, we are constantly looking at new ways to reconcile the interests of Mankind with those of the animal kingdom. The media (TV, radio and newspapers) often present complex issues as black and white or right and wrong.

The reality is often very different and trying to simplify complex issues can distort them. Everyone should listen carefully to the debates and decide where they stand.

JO CUNNINGHAM, Regional Press Officer, RSPCA, Shrewsbury.