§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he plans to introduce legislation concerning the treatment of animals in circuses.
§ Mrs. RumboldCircus animals are protected by the Protection of Animals Act 1911 as well as the Performing Animals (Regulation) Act 1925. These Acts together provide for, among other things, the registration of trainers, the inspection of premises by local authorities and the prosecution of anyone who causes any animal unnecessary suffering. This gives circus animals both general and specific protection and we have no plans for further legislation.