In advance of the crucial Commons Debate to discuss a ban on the use of wild animals in circuses today, Animal Defenders International (ADI) and high profile supporters and celebrities are once again calling on the Government to reconsider their recent decision not to implement an outright ban on the use of wild animals in circuses, and to now vote for a ban.
Brian Blessed, Annette Crosbie, Ricky Gervais, Meg Mathews, Brian May, Julia McKenzie, John Nettles, Mark Radcliffe, Alexei Sayle and Benjamin Zephaniah have all signed an open letter to the Prime Minister and are requesting that as many politicians as possible attend and vote for a ban today.
Jan Creamer, Chief Executive of ADI said: "Although the issue of wild animals in circuses has been discussed in Parliament, this is the first time that MPs will have a chance to vote on this issue. This is a unique opportunity for our parliamentarians to make a real difference for wild animals in circuses.
“We are extremely grateful to these well known personalities for their support, and we are calling on politicians to attend and do the right thing for animal welfare and protection by listening to the will of the nation.”
Mark Pritchard MP, Jim Fitzpatrick MP and Bob Russell MP have secured a three hour backbench cross party debate to discuss the issue in the Chamber on Thursday 23 June commencing at 3pm and running to 6pm.
Immediately afterwards a vote is expected to be taken urging that the Coalition Government uses its powers to introduce a regulation banning the use of all wild animals in circuses.
ADI is co-ordinating a media call in advance of the debate, involving key cross party political figures, ADI spokespeople and supporters. This will take place today at 12.50pm, College Green (opposite Parliament), Abingdon Street, Westminster, London, SWIP.
