Overview

This bill aims to ban the use of wild animals in circuses in England and Wales. It makes it an offense to use a wild animal in a circus performance or exhibition, with penalties for those who violate the law. The bill also establishes inspection powers to ensure compliance.

Description

The Wild Animals in Circuses (Prohibition) Bill prohibits circus operators from using wild animals in their acts. A "circus operator" is broadly defined and includes the owner, those with overall responsibility, or those ultimately responsible if the owner or responsible party is not in the UK. A "wild animal" means one not commonly domesticated in Great Britain. The bill specifies that using an animal in a performance or exhibition constitutes an offence.

Penalties: A circus operator found guilty faces a fine. If a corporation commits the offense due to an officer's consent, connivance, or neglect, both the corporation and the officer can be prosecuted.

Enforcement: The bill grants the Secretary of State the power to appoint inspectors who can enter premises (with warrants for dwellings) to investigate suspected offenses. Inspectors possess broad powers to search, examine, question, sample, photograph, seize evidence (excluding animals), and require assistance. Obstructing an inspector is also an offence. Inspectors are protected from legal action if acting in good faith with reasonable grounds.

Consequential Amendment: The bill amends the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976, limiting its circus exemption to Wales and Scotland.

Extent and Commencement: The bill applies only to England and Wales and comes into force on December 1, 2017.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. However, costs will likely arise from appointing and training inspectors, and the enforcement of the law.

Groups Affected

• Circus operators: Those using wild animals will be directly impacted, facing potential fines and legal action.
• Animal welfare groups: These groups will likely see this as a positive step towards improved animal welfare.
• Inspectors: New roles will be created within the government to oversee compliance with the act.
• The public: The public will benefit from the protection of wild animals from potentially exploitative practices.
• Law enforcement: The police and other relevant authorities will be responsible for enforcing the new legislation.

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