Justin Tomlinson MP today welcomed the Government's announcement that it is committed to pursuing a complete ban on the use of wild animals in travelling circuses in England.
This follows a recent case in Austria, where the Constitutional Court found that the ban was proportionate and in line with EU law.
Justin Tomlinson MP said "I am delighted that the Government has taken notice of the strength of opinion that was apparent in the Parliamentary debate on this issue last year. I was a supporter of this backbench debate and spoke about the vital importance of securing this ban. Since the debate, I have been chasing the Government on this issue, asking Parliamentary Written Questions urging them to act."
The Government also recognises that as it develops the details and legislative framework for the ban, the welfare of those wild animals currently in circuses is paramount. For this reason, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is consulting on a tough new licensing regime which we can put in place more promptly using existing powers under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. This will allow the Government to make sure the welfare-based licensing scheme is considered by Parliament before it rises for the summer.
Justin Tomlinson MP continued: "I welcome moves to act on a temporary basis to protect wild animals still trapped in circuses whilst the ban is drawn up and implemented. These animals suffer needlessly on a daily basis and we must do all we can to alleviate this before a ban ends it once and for all."
You can view Justin's question to the Minister here: http://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2011-10-03a.70894.h&s=justin+tomlinson+circus g70894.q0