The government fails animals in circuses

The overwhelming view is that circuses with wild animals should be banned. Regulation will be ineffective, costly and result in more animal suffering.

Inspections have repeatedly failed to discover cases of neglect and abuse in circuses and zoos, and licensing in other countries has also been shown to be inadequate. The government has claimed that regulation is a temporary measure and that a Bill to ban wild animal circuses could still come before the house. However, it will give no clear commitment.

A ban is still possible if the public continues to make its voice heard.