Diolch, Llywydd, and I move the motion. I'm very pleased to open this afternoon's debate on the Wild Animals and Circuses (Wales) Bill, following completion of Stage 3 last week.

I introduced this Bill just over a year ago. Its purpose is to address ethical concerns by banning the use of wild animals in travelling circuses. To make an ethical decision that reflects the views of the people of Wales, I have considered overall public opinion on this issue. The Bill's development was informed by a consultation that attracted over 6,500 responses. The overwhelming majority of respondents supported the introduction of legislation that would make it an offence for a wild animal to be used in a travelling circus. I'm grateful to all who took time to respond to the consultation and share their thoughts on this issue.

Circuses are commercial operations that exist to provide entertainment. This type of entertainment when it includes wild animals is outdated. Wild animals are sentient beings with complex needs. They should not be objectified or perceived as commodities for our entertainment. Children in particular should be protected from negative and inaccurate experiences that could influence how they believe animals behave and how they should be treated. I want our young people growing up with respectful and responsible attitudes towards all species.

I would like to thank all those who contributed to getting the Bill to this stage, starting with the small but extremely dedicated Bill team in the office of the chief veterinary officer who, with support from colleagues across Government, have worked tirelessly. I also wish to acknowledge the determined lobbying by individuals and third sector organisations on this issue. I'm grateful to the committees and Members of the Senedd for their consideration and scrutiny of the Bill and to the Senedd Commission staff for their support in the Bill process.

I would particularly like to thank representatives of organisations and individuals who took time to provide evidence to the Climate Change, Environment and Rural Affairs Committee. These included the British Veterinary Association, People for Ethical Treatment of Animals, RSPCA Cymru, academics and representatives from the circus industry. The strength of feeling on this emotive subject, from both sides of the debate, was obvious during those evidence sessions. This was also reflected during the scrutiny sessions I attended and the debates we've had here in the Senedd. There has been disagreement about the scope of the Bill, its provisions and definitions. Nonetheless, I think it is true to say there is a good deal of consensus amongst Members on what we're trying to achieve with this Bill.

The Bill, should it become law, will be enforced by local authorities. There will be minimal impact on local authorities, and I expect travelling circuses to comply with the ban. I would expect, in the majority of situations, the offence of using a wild animal would be publicly obvious. I've already committed to producing guidance and will consult with local authorities on the development of that guidance.

A ban on the use of wild animals in travelling circuses in Wales is overdue and will allow for a consistent approach across Great Britain. The Scottish Government banned it in 2018, and a ban in England came into force earlier this year. If passed today, and subject to Royal Assent, the Bill will come into force on 1 December 2020. The passing of this Bill will represent a significant step forward for wild animals in Wales and beyond, and I urge Members to support it today. Diolch yn fawr.