Zoological Society of London (Leases) Bill

MP Christopher Chope raised a point of order to move on to the next business.

MP Roger Gale clarified that they cannot proceed until the Third Reading debate has commenced, as King’s consent must be signified first.

Minister Therese Coffey asked when speeches on the Bill can commence once King’s consent is signified.

Asked why it is important for the Bill to proceed to Third Reading immediately.

Inquired about when ZSL’s current lease commenced and requested statistics on international visitors to London Zoo each year.

Asked for clarification on steps taken by London Zoo to move away from outdated practices and ensure the architectural integrity of listed buildings.

Confirmed that the Bill does not automatically extend the lease but provides the necessary authority for DCMS to negotiate a 150-year extension, facilitating investment in renovation and expansion.

Asked about the drafting of clause 2(1), which extends the Bill's jurisdiction beyond London despite its focus on Regent’s Park.

Inquired about statistics related to the number of animals protected and reintroduced into the wild through ZSL’s conservation operations.

Suggests that extending the lease is necessary to secure financial stability for London Zoo. However, he questions the scope of the Bill and suggests it may be shortsighted not to consider longer-term solutions.

Supports the extension of the lease, highlighting the importance of London Zoo for wildlife conservation both locally and internationally. Emphasises the need for financial security to maintain listed buildings and ensure proper animal habitats.

Highlights the educational and conservation value of zoos, particularly London Zoo, emphasising its role in protecting endangered species like pangolins. Supports the Bill as a means to secure the future of London Zoo.

Commends the Bill for extending the lease term of ZSL London Zoo, highlighting its historical and cultural significance as the world's oldest zoo. Mentions its importance in conservation efforts, such as preserving endangered species like kingfishers and tigers. Acknowledges the modernisation plans under Matthew Gould's leadership and supports the need for long-term certainty to attract investment.

Supports the Bill, noting its importance in allowing a longer lease term of 150 years. Emphasises ZSL London Zoo's international conservation efforts and economic impact through tourism (£24 million annually). Highlights educational benefits for schools, conservation breeding programmes like those for northern bald ibis and amur tigers, and future plans to create a 'campus for nature' that is accessible to all.

Supports extending the lease as it will safeguard ZSL’s future, enhance fundraising and partnerships for conservation work. Highlights benefits like a research centre of innovation dedicated to biodiversity protection and accessibility improvements.

Concurs with the support of extending the lease, emphasising the zoo's role in conservation and education. Mentions concerns over animal welfare but acknowledges the positive impact on research and community engagement.

The Bill proposes a small amendment to extend the maximum lease term from 60 years to 150 years for the Zoological Society of London. This extension will allow the society to secure longer-term investment, develop strategic philanthropic relationships, and increase potential commercial partnerships that ensure its continued growth. It aligns ZSL with other organisations on Crown Estate land, such as Kew Gardens. The amendment aims to facilitate the creation of a biodiversity campus in Regent's Park, enhancing research, conservation efforts, and public engagement. London zoo contributes significantly to the local and national economy and hosts numerous educational programmes for students.

Asked about residential properties within the zoo, particularly if they are purely for zookeepers. Also inquired about London zoo's fit with wider tourist attractions and compared the 150-year lease proposed to other long-term leases such as Burlington House.

Asked about London zoo’s fit within the wider tourist ecosystem and enquired about the scale of investment that extending the lease will unlock in terms of modernisation and improvements.

Inquired about ZSL’s plans to address climate change within educational programmes and conservation efforts, highlighting the significant biodiversity loss since 1970.

Acknowledged support from colleagues, thanked those involved in the Bill’s progress, and emphasised the need to extend London zoo's lease. He highlighted the energy costs increase due to inefficient buildings and cited the importance of maintaining consistently high temperatures for endangered species such as tigers.

[Intervention] Initially proposed an amendment to reduce the lease but later argued in favour of extending it. His intervention was noted by Bob Blackman, indicating his support for the extension.