§ 5. Mr. Kenneth Clarkeasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will seek powers to make regulations governing the establishment and inspection of private zoological gardens and collections of wild animals.
§ Mr. CarlisleI am not at present in a position to add to the reply given on 5th November to a Question on this subject by the hon. Member for Eton and Slough (Miss Lestor.)—{Vol. 805, c. 1250.]
§ Mr. ClarkeWhile I am grateful for that reply, may I ask whether my hon. Friend is aware that the answer of 5th November said that he was considering representations? May I ask my hon. Friend to consider the position of constituents of mine who go in fear, of all things, of baboons and a puma kept somewhat insecurely by a neighbour? May I ask him seriously to consider introducing some commonsense control over who can keep wild and dangerous animals and where they can be kept?
§ Mr. CarlisleI will, of course, consider anything that my hon. Friend wishes to put to me. I point out that, in respect of civil liability, if a wild animal which escapes causes injury or damage, the owner is liable to have damages awarded against him.
§ Mr. DalyellIs the Minister aware that any blanket criticism of private zoos is a bit unfair because there are some such establishments, like Blair Drummond in Scotland, which are extremely enlightened and well run?
§ Mr. CarlisleI am grateful for what the hon. Gentleman said. It is within our knowledge that, for example, R.S.P.C.A. inspectors keep careful watch on private zoos, and we have very few complaints.