HC Deb 14 November 1991 vol 198 cc635-6W
Mr. Win Griffiths

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) if he will make it his policy to establish a register of wildlife sanctuaries, hospitals and rescue services, with a requirement that before registration such bodies have suitably qualified members of staff or qualified veterinary consultants who must visit the sanctuaries at least fortnightly;

(2) if he will introduce legislation to ensure that wildlife sanctuaries, hospitals and rescue services are subject to regular spot checks by local authority environmental health inspectors or other appropriately qualified inspectors.

Mr. Baldry

The Government recognise the excellent practical work already undertaken on a voluntary basis by the growing number of wildlife sanctuaries, hospitals and rescue centres. Existing legislation already protects captive animals against ill-treatment. The Government are not persuaded of the case for further statutory measures either for registration or inspection. In this field, it would be preferable for the bodies themselves to develop and agree voluntary codes of practice and thereby avoid incurring unnecessary costs and bureaucracy.

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