§ 28. Miss Lestorasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will set up an inquiry into the regulations governing the establishing of private zoos.
§ Mr. CarlisleMy right hon. Friend is considering representations which have been made to him on this matter, but he is not at present in a position to make a statement.
§ Miss LestorI thank the hon. Gentleman for that reply. May I draw his attention to the fact that there has been a mushrooming of small private zoos in the last few years; and that from the representations that I have received, and from my own observations, it appears that they leave a great deal to be desired in terms of security and of the standard of care for the animals in them? There is also danger to the public because of inadequate security measures in respect of many of the more dangerous animals.
§ Mr. CarlisleAs to the care of the animals, the hon. Lady probably knows that under the Protection of Animals Act, 1911, it is already an offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to any captive animal. As to her other comments, my right hon. Friend is, as I say, at present considering representations he has received.