§ 23. Sir B. Jannerasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will seek to amend the law so as to ensure that when dangerous wild animals such as pumas, jaguars and snakes are kept as pets by private individuals adequate security is ensured.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesMy right hon. Friend has no reason to think that escapes of dangerous wild animals are so numerous as to create a need for legislation.
§ Sir B. JannerDoes my hon. Friend realise that the escape of a small number of fierce animals which could do, and has done, considerable damage to other animals is something about which due care should be taken, because not only the lives and safety of other animals which have been attacked, but of human beings who are likely to be attacked, should be protected?
§ Mr. ReesMy hon. Friend seeks to know whether we need to amend the law. It would not be easy to devise a system of licensing for the keeping of wild animals which could distinguish between dangerous or potentially dangerous wild animals and others. Of course there is concern, but the problem is extremely small. There is always recourse to the civil law.
§ Mr. Costainrose—
§ Mr. SpeakerMr. Costain.
§ Sir B. JannerOn a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature—
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. The hon. Gentleman is too late. Mr. Costain.
§ Mr. CostainWill the Minister confirm that there has been less damage to the human race from wild animals than from wild dogs?
§ Sir B. JannerOn a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I shall seek leave to raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible opportunity.