I have no idea. I do not know the politics and I do not know the Prime Minister's position. I accept that the vast majority of the public are opposed to the use of wild animals in circuses, as—I believe—are the vast majority of Members of the House.
It is particular confusing that whereas the Government have a stated ambition over the course of this Parliament to reduce red tape and bureaucracy, their alternative to a straightforward ban affecting 30 or perhaps 40 animals is to construct a new regulatory regime, with licensing and inspections and the various associated costs. That goes against the Government's general thrust and direction—and all for 30 or 40 animals. That makes no sense at all.
Wild Animals (Circuses)
Proceeding contribution from
Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park
(Conservative)
in the House of Commons on Thursday, 23 June 2011.
It occurred during Backbench debate on Wild Animals (Circuses).
Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
530 c568 
Session
2010-12
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
Subjects
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Timestamp
2023-12-15 17:11:24 +0000
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