Ban on wild animals in travelling circuses given Royal Assent

A new law banning the use of wild animals in travelling circuses in Wales has been given Royal Assent.

The Wild Animals and Circuses (Wales) Act will come into force on December 1.

The bill was first introduced last year, after more than 6,500 people responded to a public consultation on the issue, with 97% supporting the ban.

The bill was passed by members of the Senedd in July.

Wild animals are already banned in travelling circuses in Scotland and England.

Claire Lawson, of RSPCA Cymru, said the ban is a “cause for celebration”.

Ms Lawson said: “RSPCA Cymru has long campaigned on this issue – and this law makes such an important statement as to how society in Wales treats animals, and our norms and values towards our fellow living creatures.

“The strength of feeling in all corners of Wales is clear, and people across the country will join us in celebrating on December 1 when this outdated activity is finally banned and consigned to the history books once and for all.”

Senedd Member Janet Finch-Saunders, chair of the Senedd Petitions Committee, said: “This is the culmination of a long-running and determined campaign by a great many people in Wales and this committee is pleased to see their efforts recognised.

“I congratulate the petitioners and their supporters for their unstinting campaigning.”