§ Mr. Jannerasked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many poisonous snakes he estimates there are in the United Kingdom in public and private zoos; what controls there are on the manner in which they are kept; whether he is satisfied with such controls; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TraceyMy Department has no figures of the number of poisonous snakes kept in zoos. However, zoos keeping these species must be inspected and licensed by local authorities under the Zoo Licensing Act 1981. Local authorities may put conditions on licenses concerning the conduct of the zoo, including precautions to be taken against the escape of animals, and steps to be taken in the event of any escape or unauthorised release. I have no plans to change these controls.
§ Mr. Jannerasked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) whether he will issue guidance to those who keep boa constrictors or other non-poisonous but potentially dangerous snakes as to safe methods for their custody; and if he will make a statement;
(2) how many boa constrictors and how many other non-poisonous but potentially dangerous snakes he estimates are in captivity in the United Kingdom; and how many and what percentage are in public and in private zoos, respectively;
(3) if he will introduce legislation to require the licensing of those who keep boa constrictors or other nonpoisonous but potentially dangerous snakes; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TraceyA review of controls on dangerous wild animals was carried out in 1984. The review concluded, on the basis of expert advice, that boa constrictors and other non-poisonous snakes need not be subject to control under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976.
Advice for private individuals who keep these snakes is obtainable from several non-Government sources, including a leaflet published by the Pet Trade and Industry Association.
My Department has no figures of the number of these snakes kept in captivity.