Dangerous Wild Animals Act

Wild animals should live in the wild, not captivity. They have complex behavioural, environmental and social needs which are impossible to meet in a domestic setting. 

The private ownership of endangered, exotic or dangerous species also undermines global conservation efforts as well as increases the risk of invasive species becoming established in the UK. 

Following the decision of the previous Conservative government to abandon promised animal welfare legislation, it is important that the current Labour government now brings forward reforms to strengthen protections and ensure regulations properly address the unacceptability of keeping of wild animals as pets. 

My Liberal Democrat Parliamentary colleagues and I support calls for a review of exotic pet ownership, including a full reform of the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976. 

I have written to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to press these points and to wage Ministers for a comprehensive review and reform of the Act and associated regulations.