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Saturday, July 18, 2020

July 18, 2020
Wales has banned live animals from circuses - walesonline


There were more than 6,500 responses to the public consultation on the draft Bill, with 97% of respondents supporting the introduction of a ban.

Similar bans have also been introduced in Scotland and England, but this Bill in Wales was delayed because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Lesley Griffiths, the Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs, said: "This Bill will address the ethical concerns of people across Wales by banning the use of wild animals in travelling circuses.

"The use of wild animals for entertainment in this way is outdated. Wild animals are sentient beings with complex needs, and they should not be seen as commodities for our entertainment."


The Bill, which should come into force on December 1, has been welcomed by the RSPCA.

Claire Lawson, who is the assistant director for external relations in Wales, said: "This is an historic day for animals in Wales - with the spectre of wild animals being used in travelling circuses set to be consigned to the history books, once and for all.

"The RSPCA is proud to have long campaigned on this issue and the strength of feeling in all corners of Wales was clear.

"We're delighted this Welsh Government Bill has now passed its final legislative hurdle; making a hugely important statement concerning how policy in Wales matches societal norms and values towards our fellow living creatures."

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