Will the Cabinet Secretary provide a statement on the introduction of a ban on animal circuses in Wales?
There is concern the welfare needs of some animals kept by Mobile Animal Exhibits (MAEs), including hawking displays, reindeer at Christmas events and, of course, performing wild animals in circuses cannot be met in a travelling environment. MAEs are diverse and there is no standard licensing regime or requirement for routine inspection. We must decide whether or not a change of policy and/or the law is required to protect the welfare of animals in MAEs. A licensing or registration scheme could improve the welfare of animals in travelling environments and also legitimise businesses operating as MAEs in Wales.
I recently consulted on the introduction of a licensing or registration scheme for MAEs. The consultation also asked for views on the banning the use of wild animals in circuses. Officials are now analysing responses to the consultation, the first on this subject, which will be used to inform the next steps and I will make a statement on this before 15th December.
Details of the outcome of the consultation will be published on the Welsh Government website in due course.