HC Deb 25 October 1967 vol 751 cc512-3W
Mr. Whitaker

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will consider introducing legislation to compel zoos to observe proper standards by being licensed and inspected.

Mr. Roy Jenkins

I have no such proposals in mind. The major zoos have recently formed the Federation of Zoological Gardens of Great Britain and Ireland with the object of encouraging proper care of wild animals in captivity by laying down standards of zoo management and animal husbandry. Membership of this body is open to any zoo which, on inspection by the Federation, can show that its standards are maintained.