Overview

This bill aims to ban the use of wild animals in travelling circuses in England. It outlines the offenses involved, inspection procedures, and associated penalties. The bill also makes a consequential amendment to the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976.

Description

Prohibition

The bill makes it illegal for circus operators to use wild animals in travelling circuses in England. "Use" is defined as performing or exhibiting the animal as part of the circus. This applies to the owner, those with overall responsibility, or ultimately responsible person in the UK if neither the owner nor responsible person is present.

Offenses and Penalties

Breaking the law results in a fine upon summary conviction. Corporate bodies face penalties, and officers involved may also be prosecuted if their consent, connivance, or neglect contributed to the offense.

Inspections

The bill allows the Secretary of State to appoint inspectors with powers to enter premises (with a warrant for dwellings) if there is reasonable suspicion of an offense. Inspectors can search, examine, question, take samples and photographs, and seize evidence. Obstruction of inspectors is also an offense.

Definitions

The bill uses definitions from the Animal Welfare Act 2006 for "animal" and provides specific definitions for "circus operator," "officer," and "wild animal" (an animal not commonly domesticated in Great Britain).

Extent and Commencement

The Act applies to England and Wales, with one amendment extending to Scotland. It comes into force on January 20, 2020.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. However, costs will likely be incurred in appointing and training inspectors, implementing enforcement, and potential legal proceedings.

Groups Affected

Circus operators: Will be directly affected by the ban on using wild animals, potentially impacting their business model and profitability.

Animal welfare groups: Will likely see this as a positive step towards improved animal welfare.

Inspectors: Will be responsible for enforcing the law.

The public: Will experience a change in the types of acts seen in travelling circuses.

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