The Review of the Welfare of Wild Animals in Circuses – Far from Impartial? Part 1

A review of the welfare of wild animals in circuses, which was commissioned by the Welsh Assembly, has finally been published.  It will come as no surprise to many, including Rouster, that the whole exercise was going to be a “greenwash” in favour of the animal-rights lobby. 

See: Is Welsh Assembly trying to 'fix' a circus animals ban?

First, the lead scientist, Professor Stephen Harris, chosen to undertake this review has co-authored a paper in 2009 condemning the use of wild animals in circuses; a situation that should have at least challenged his scientific neutrality on this issue.  He also has a reputation for involvement with various animal-rights lobby groups including The League Against Cruel Sports (LACS).  This association and his long-term friendship with a leading member this organization caused a court case in 2015 to be dismissed and brought into judgment his objectivity is an independent witness.

Circus Ban in Wales. Begging The Big Question

Campbell has always declared an interest in the animal-rights movement and a cursory glance at his Twitter feed aptly demonstrates his eagerness to promote animal-rights groups such as The Born Free Foundation and the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PeTA)

The media love controversy and if it involves animals and allegations of cruelty, they love it even more.  The circus is no stranger to this situation despite the fact that bona fide independent research demonstrates that the welfare of animals in well-run circus is not compromised.  This fact was accepted by the British government when they announced a muted and yet to be implemented ban on wild animals in British circuses. 

"...The 2007 Radford Report on circus animals concluded that there was insufficient scientific evidence to demonstrate that travelling circuses are unable to meet the welfare needs of wild animals presently being used in the United Kingdom. That position has not changed. Consequently, we are now looking at the means by which a ban could be introduced on ethical ground..." Minister of State for Agriculture and Food (James Paice) 1 March 2012