Wild Animals in Circuses (Prohibition)

Debate between Christopher Chope and John Nicolson

Wednesday 10th February 2016 Commons Chamber

[Mr Chope]

I hope my hon. Friend the Member for Colchester will listen to this response. He spoke of tricks being done by wild animals in circuses. If we look at a similar Bill promoted in the previous Parliament, we will see that it sought to impose a ban even on displaying wild animals.

The definition of a wild animal is also an issue. For example, does my hon. Friend think that a camel, which in most countries of the world is regarded as a domestic animal, should be banned from being able to participate in a circus?

[John Nicolson (East Dunbartonshire) (SNP)]

rose—

[Mr Speaker]

Order. May I just explain that in these circumstances we do not take interventions? That does not happen. Mr Chope’s remarks must be heard.