02/06/2009

MSP backs circus boycott call

MSP Christine Grahame has backed a call by Advocates for Animals and the Captive Animals' Protection Society (CAPS) for a public boycott of one of the UK’s last remaining animal circuses, when it performs in the Public Park in Galashiels from the 2nd to 7th of June.

The Bobby Roberts Circus features an elderly, arthritic elephant alongside horses, dogs and a camel. Ms Grahame, who Convenes the Cross Party Parliamentary Group on Animal Welfare said:

“I am supporting campaigners call for a boycott of the Bobby Roberts Circus when it arrives in Galashiels. I believe the use of animals in circuses such is this is unnecessary and in many cases cruel. There has been particular concerns raised with this circus in relation to the elephant that is used and I hope Borderers will not endorse the exploitation of this animal by attending the show when it comes here.”

Advocates for Animals’ Campaigns Director Ross Minett said:
"People can enjoy circuses without animals being forced to perform. Most circuses now feature an all-human cast, removing the need to keep animals confined for long periods, transport them around the country and use hidden training methods to make them perform in the ring.”

Craig Redmond, Campaigns Director for CAPS added:
“Despite repeated claims by the circus, Anne the elephant is not retired. She may be too arthritic to perform typical circus tricks any more, but she is still transported across the country so people can pay to have their photo taken alongside her. She deserves a real retirement, in a sanctuary with others of her species. We would encourage people to avoid all animal circuses.”

Opinion polls consistently reveal that the public overwhelmingly oppose the confinement, transportation and training methods used by animal circuses and support a ban.

For more information contact:
Craig Redmond, Captive Animals’ Protection Society: 0845 330 3911.
Notes to Editors:
Information about Anne:
•       55-year-old Anne was bought by the circus from Sri Lanka when she was 5-years-old;
•       She has not had the company of other elephants since two others died at the circus in 2002;
•       Although Anne no longer performs tricks in the ring she is not retired - she is transported with the circus and people can pay to have their photo taken alongside her.
•       The circus has also rented her out for use in TV ads;
•       For more information on Anne see: www.captiveanimals.org/elephants/anne.htm 
•       An image of Anne the elephant in the circus ring is available from - info@captiveanimals.org

Advocates for Animals ……
The Captive Animals' Protection Society was founded in 1957, campaigning on issues relating to wildlife in captivity and the use of animals in entertainment. CAPS opposes the use of all animals in circuses, domestic as well as wild.

SNP It’s time.....