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Bill Summary
Location Bill  Title  Date  Category
UnitedKingdom  DEFRA announcement  Consultation on Circus Licensing  3/2/2012  Dead
Summary
Bill Text

PRESS RELEASE

UK Opens Consultation on Circus Licensing System

Reports of a Ban Incorrect

2 March 2012  The United Kingdom’s governmental agency Defra (Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs) announced yesterday a public consultation on a proposed licensing scheme that would promote and safeguard the welfare of wild animals in travelling circuses in England. Under the proposals, operators of a travelling circus that failed to safeguard the welfare of their animals would face enforcement action.

Contrary to certain media reports, Defra has not established a ban on wild animals in the circus.  The consultation explicitly states that Defra “is not seeking views on a ban on the use of wild animals in travelling circuses.” In future, Defra will consider this possibility following study of ethical issues. Knowledge gained from experience with the licensing system will be used for such future policy considerations.

A licensing system, including announced and unannounced inspections, is in line with the European Circus Association’s long-standing call for governments across Europe to establish and enforce appropriate regulations for performing animals.

“The European Circus Association is pleased to learn that Defra is continuing with its efforts to establish regulations for circus animals and we look forward to participating in the consultation,” said President Urs Pilz. “This approach is in line with scientific evidence demonstrating that welfare needs of animals can be met by travelling circuses.”

The licensing scheme would be introduced by regulations made under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. The regulations will require standards of animal welfare to be met. The welfare standards would be set as license conditions.  The consultation will conclude on 25 April 2012.

For more information please contact the European Circus Association at:

 ECA@europeancircus.info

 


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