Scotland is the first country in the UK to enact legislation banning the use of wild animals in circuses.
Celebrating this popular measure, Animal Defenders International (ADI) renewed its call to other UK nations to follow Scotland’s lead.
The Wild Animals in Travelling Circuses (Scotland) Act 2018 came into force on 28 May, five months after the Bill was unanimously passed by MSPs. Its introduction followed a public consultation conducted by the SNP Government revealed 98% of respondents backed a ban.
Jan Creamer, President of Animal Defenders International, said:
“Having campaigned for many years to end the suffering of circus animals, we are thrilled that Scotland has taken action. We now look to England, Wales and Northern Ireland to follow Scotland’s lead and deliver legislation that the public have long wanted and the animals so desperately need.”
Kenneth Gibson MSP added:
“While I am pleased to say there are no wild animal circuses based in Scotland, this is an important step as we can now legally say no to wild animal circuses which used to come from England and other countries.
“The conditions under which tigers, lions and other magnificent wild animals are kept are heartbreaking and I am proud that Scotland is once again taking the lead when it comes to legislation ensuing this becomes a fairer place for man and animal alike.
“I would urge the rest of the UK will do the right thing and follow in our footsteps.”
ADI is currently assisting the authorities in Guatemala with enforcement of legislation banning animal circus acts which passed in 2017 and which took effect last month. ADI removed the animals, three lions, from the first circus in Guatemala last week and is seeking urgent funds to save dozens more. You can donate to ADI here.
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