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Wales To Ban The Use Of Wild Animals In Circuses

February 20, 2018

Wales has announced plans to ban the use of wild animals in circuses, similar to the one agreed by the Scottish Parliament in December of last year.

Credit: picture-alliance / Y. Kochetkov

Wales' rural affairs secretary Lesley Griffiths said she is exploring opportunities to bring in a country-wide ban because "it is important the welfare needs of their animals are not overlooked."

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) said it was "absolutely delighted" by the news.

"The RSPCA has fought for years to see this ban become a reality - and we are absolutely delighted that the Welsh Government has confirmed its intention to bring forward legislation to end this outdated and cruel practice on this country's soil," said Claire Lawson from RSPCA Cymru.

Linda Joyce Jones, who presented a petition with nearly 4,000 signatures to the Welsh Government in January calling for a ban, said she "hopes it will lead to legislation".

"I'm glad they listened to the people who signed my petition," Jones said. "Over 30 countries have banned this practice all over the world including Scotland and Ireland. I hope Wales will do same."