§ Norman BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) what assessment her Department has made of the extent to which the treatment of elephants in zoos within the UK is consistent with good practice in animal welfare; and if she will make a statement; [30450]
(2) if she will review the regulations relating to the management of elephants in zoos; and if she will make a statement. [30210]
§ Mr. Morley[holding answer 29 January 2002]: I have no current plans to review the legislation relating to the management of elephants in zoos. The Zoo Licensing Act 1981 makes clear that all animals, including elephants, should be kept in accommodation that is adequate for their proper care and well-being. Zoos are regularly inspected to ensure that that is the case and that all animals are treated in accordance with the guidance on animal welfare set out in the Secretary of State's Standards of Modern Zoo Practice.