Rebecca has joined the RSPCA in Parliament to campaign for a ban on the use of wild animals in circuses. Public opinion polls consistently show majority support for a ban, with the UK falling behind other countries in taking action, as it is revealed that eighteen wild animals are still used in the UK today. Rebecca will continue to work closely with the RSPCA on this issue, and will support the Wild Animals in Circuses Bill in Parliament.

Circuses are wholly unsuitable environments for wild animals, with repeated studies showing that circus life is likely to have a significantly harmful impact on the welfare of many types of animals1. An increasing number of countries have now introduced bans on the use of wild animals in circuses, leaving the UK lagging behind on this important issue of animal welfare2.

A total ban is long overdue and is supported by the public. With the existing regulations due to expire in January 2020, now is the time for the Government to take action to cement the UK’s position as a world leader in animal welfare3.

Rebecca Harris MP said:

“I’m proud to support the RSPCA in campaigning to bring an end to the use of wild animals in circuses. We are a nation of animal lovers, so I find it shocking that this practice is still happening in the UK today. I’m glad the Government is going to take action.”

Ros Clubb, Senior Scientific Manager for Captive Wild Animals, said:

“Wild animals do not belong in the circus. We continue to push the Westminster Government to bring in its manifesto promise to ban the outdated practice of using wild animals in circuses in England as we believe these animals cannot be cared for adequately within the current level of regulations. Circuses touring with wild animals need to be finally consigned to the history books. In 2018, there's simply no excuse for it.”