1. Does the Welsh Government intend to ban wild animals in circuses in Wales? OAQ51560

During business questions last week, the Cabinet Secretary for Energy, Planning and Rural Affairs agreed to issue a written statement on mobile animal exhibits, including circuses, before the spring half term recess.

I thank you for that answer, First Minister. I think the whole tenor of my question leads you to believe that I think that we ought to ban wild animals from use in circuses, and I look forward to us bringing that forward. It is the case, of course, that England have announced that they're moving in this direction. They've only announced—let's not get carried away—a move in this direction, but at the same time, Scotland have actually moved in this direction. So, I do urge the Government to send a crystal clear message to travelling circuses—because we don't have any resident circuses in Wales—that if they have wild animals on board, they are not welcome in Wales and it's an outdated practice that needs to be stopped. So, whilst we're going through the process—and I welcome the fact that we are making a move in this direction—at the same time I hope we'll send that message in the interim.

Well, it's clear, following the recent consultation on licensing of mobile animal exhibits, that there's widespread support for a ban on the use of wild animals in circuses, and officials are considering how to address this issue. It goes without saying that the way that we treat our animals is an important reflection of the values of our society. The consultation closed on 9 October, and I know that the Minister is actively considering now the best way forward.

First Minister, there are some very real concerns that the proposed definition of mobile animal exhibits in the recent Government consultation is too broad and would put at risk any system in terms of licensing being disproportionate or impractical. So, can you tell us how the Welsh Government will tackle these concerns so that any progress in this area is proportionate and truly leads to a ban on the use of wild animals in circuses in Wales? Because that's what I think the people of Wales want to see.

Well, that will be part of the consideration that is given to this matter by the Minister over the ensuing weeks. We want, of course, to ensure that we have a scheme that has a permanent impact on animal welfare standards in order to, of course, ensure that we improve the standards of animal welfare in Wales.

What concerns me on this issue is that Wales could become a haven for circuses using wild animals. Scotland has banned their use, Westminster is considering a ban, but Wales is falling behind in this area despite the fact that the UK leader of your party is in favour of a ban. So, what exactly is holding you back, and wasn't it a mistake to confuse two things in this consultation? Isn't it a simple matter of introducing a ban on wild animals in circuses, and then looking at what needs to be done in terms of mobile exhibits in rural areas and so on?

No. I believe that what has been done in the consultation is correct, and we don't wish to be a haven. Can I just say that to the Member? We don't want to be a haven where wild animals can come to Wales while there is a ban in the other nations of the United Kingdom, and even in the Republic of Ireland. So, that is not the intention. What we're considering now is the best way forward in order to ensure the welfare of these animals.