Following our campaign, in conjunction with other charities and animal welfare groups, to secure a ban on the use of wild animals in circuses, MPs have finally secured parliamentary time for the following motion to be debated: “That this House directs the Government to use its powers under section 12 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 to introduce a regulation banning the use of all wild animals in circuses.” The debate will take place on Thursday, June 23, at 3pm, in the House of Commons, and may lead to a vote. Calls for a ban have overwhelming public support, and the support of a large number of MPs, including DEFRA ministers. However, the Government has so far favored the introduction of a licensing and inspection system, citing possible legal obstacles to a complete ban. The cruelty and mistreatment inherent in the use of performing wild animals in traveling circuses has no place in modern Britain. The brutal training techniques, inappropriate housing, and frequent transport in beast wagons that these animals suffer need to be consigned to the past. Several other countries have already introduced bans. If the Government wants to retain the UK's reputation for having an enlightened approach to animal welfare, it should stop making feeble excuses and introduce a total ban.
