Plans to ban the use of wild animals in circuses in Wales have been announced by the rural affairs secretary.
Lesley Griffiths, the Rural Affairs Secretary of Wales told BBC that she was “exploring opportunities” to bring in a ban similar to one agreed by the Scottish Parliament.
Although there are no circuses based in Wales, Mrs Griffiths says that “they do visit and it is important the welfare needs of their animals are not overlooked.”
The RSPCA, the largest animal welfare charity in the UK, said it was “absolutely delighted” by the news. The charity has been campaigning on the issue for around two decades.
Claire Lawson from RSPCA Cymru said it was a “momentous day for animals – with the sight of wild animals touring in circuses in Wales set to be consigned to the history books once and for all”.
“The RSPCA has fought for years to see this ban become a reality – and we are absolutely delighted that the Welsh Government has confirmed its intention to bring forward legislation to end this outdated and cruel practice on this country’s soil.”
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