Lord de Mauley
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State
Nobel House
17 Smith Square
London
SW1P 3JR
Date: 14th August 2015
Dear Rupert,
I am writing to you once again about the use of wild animals in circuses.
It has come to my attention that a new circus act - ‘An Evening with Lions and Tigers’ - is now touring the UK, and this reaffirms the clear need for the introduction of a ban on wild animals in travelling circuses . It is also highlights the importance of legislation that’s robust enough to ensure that wild animals are protected, as this circus act is being billed as an ‘educational’ act.
It is my understanding that the current text of the Government’s existing draft Bill states that a ‘travelling circus’ ‘does not require a definition’ as ‘it is a term that is commonly used and well understood’. I strongly feel that this could lead to ambiguity and that circuses who do not conform to the traditional notions of a ‘circus’ may continue to tour.
The RSPCA previously recommended that circuses be defined as follows:
‘A travelling circus means any company/group which travels from place to place for the purpose of giving performances, displays or exhibitions.’
I would, therefore, ask that the Government introduces this definition into the draft Bill, and that the Bill is brought forward as a matter of urgency.
I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this matter and I would appreciate an update on the timescale for tabling legislation.
Yours sincerely,
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