RSPCA demands government action after circus vote

Friday, 24 June 2011 5:27 PM

RSPCA demands government action after circus vote

The RSPCA is calling on the government to accept the will of Parliament and the public, and swiftly bring forward plans to ban wild animals from circuses in England.

The charity is overjoyed that MPs unanimously backed a ban yesterday (Thursday), but is extremely worried by reports that the government may not act on last night’s clear and resounding result.

 “The government must finally sit up and see sense now,” said RSPCA Director of Communications David Bowles. “Any attempt to delay or avoid a complete ban would be wrong-headed and simply not acceptable.

“The idea of continuing to pursue a licensing regime would frankly be an insult to both MPs and to the public, and to ignore such a clear result would be outrageous. Parliament has spoken, and government should listen.”

He added: “Animal welfare experts want a ban, the public wants a ban, and MPs want a ban. It is time for the government to make good on this vote, and immediately bring forward plans to end the sad spectacle of wild animals performing tricks in circuses.”

The RSPCA has campaigned on this issue for many years. We believe last night’s vote should be the start of a new era for the tigers, lions and other majestic animals forced to endure circus life, whose welfare needs have been ignored for far too long.

It is also crucial that the welfare of those wild animals currently in circuses must be considered in the run-up to any ban, and the RSPCA is also calling on the government to secure their future by ensuring they are retired to suitable homes.

For further information, please see: www.rspca.org.uk/circuses


RSPCA, Wilberforce Way, Southwater, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 9RS
Press office direct lines: 0300 123 0244/0288 Fax: 0303 123 0099
Duty press officer (evenings and weekends) Tel 08448 222888 and ask for pager number 828825
Email: press@rspca.org.uk Website: www.rspca.org.uk
 

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