Posted on the 6th May 2011
As the Coalition government reaches its first anniversary, The Independent has today (6 May 2011) reported that Downing Street has blocked plans by ministers to ban the use of wild animals in circuses. It is expected that a system of self-regulation will be announced in the next few days.
The decision flies in the face of public opinion – 94 per cent of the 10,000 responses to the government consultation called for a ban on wild animals in circuses – and the encouraging statements released over the past year by DEFRA and, indeed, the government.
This is a massive blow for all the animals imprisoned in circuses, forced to perform demeaning tricks, and confined to sheds during winter months when they are not being carted all over the country.
A recent undercover investigation by Animal Defenders International revealed the barbaric treatment of Anne the elephant and gave a glimpse into how circus animals are treated by their ‘keepers’. The public outcry over the story led to Anne being rehomed.
The Independent has started up a petition to ask the government to reconsider its decision. You can sign it here: http://www.petitionbuzz.com/petitions/circusanimals.
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