Ban Wild Animals in Circus's Petition

Dear Supporters and Friends

Once in a while, a rare opportunity arises where our elected representatives can demonstrate their commitment to animal welfare in Parliament in a way that can affect real and lasting change. We believe that Thursday 23rd June 2011 will be just such an opportunity.

On that day, a debate and vote will be held in Parliament on whether the use of wild animals in travelling circuses should be banned in England. We firmly believe that such a ban should be put in place as a matter of priority, and our view is shared by the RSPCA, the British Veterinary Association and many other responsible animal welfare organisations.

That is why I would like to ask each and every one of you to contact your MP, as soon as you can - by email, phone, or fax - and ask them to attend the debate on Thursday 23rd June and to vote in support of a ban on the use of wild animals in circuses.

You can find details on how to contact your MP here: www.writetothem.com

Remember, a ban is overwhelmingly supported throughout the land. It is also the policy of both the Labour Party and the Liberal Democrats and it’s the view held by numerous other Members of Parliament, including leading Conservatives such a Zac Goldsmith, Mark Pritchard, Roger Gale, Nicholas Soames and representatives of the Green Party, the SDLP, the DUP, Plaid Cymru and the Scottish National Party.

Along with other experts from Born Free and the other groups, I will be present from 2pm in the Boothroyd Room, Portcullis House, Westminster, at a briefing session for MPs prior to the debate. Please feel free to pass on my personal invitation to your MP if he or she would like to meet me and discuss the issue.

With warmest wishes to you all and thanks for your help and support.


Virginia McKenna OBE