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Zoos, Aquariums and Wildlife Sanctuaries: Reopening
11 June 2020
Lead MP
Andrew Rosindell
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
EconomyTaxationBusiness & TradeAgriculture & Rural Affairs
Other Contributors: 7
At a Glance
Andrew Rosindell raised concerns about zoos, aquariums and wildlife sanctuaries: reopening in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Andrew Rosindell emphasised the importance of zoos, aquariums, and wildlife sanctuaries in conservation, education, research, and animal welfare. He highlighted the financial difficulties these institutions face due to lockdowns and called for support from the Government to ensure their survival. He proposed reopening these institutions while maintaining safety guidelines and invited the Minister and Prime Minister to visit London zoo.
Andrew Mitchell
Lab
Bolsover
Asked about Twycross zoo, which is facing significant financial problems despite being well-run.
Bob Stewart
Ind
Beckenham
Celebrated Rosindell's efforts in conservation and shared a personal story involving the blue iguana.
Duncan Baker
Con
Orkney and Shetland
Called for support not just for zoos but also for other animal welfare charities, many of which are struggling financially.
Edward Timpson
Con
Crewe and Nantwich
Raised concerns about regulations preventing certain types of institutions from reopening despite being capable of implementing social distancing measures.
Mark Francois
Con
Rayleigh and Wickford
Suggested that restrictions should be lifted more widely to allow other businesses, including zoos, to reopen and help the economy recover.
Robert Courts
Con
Witney
Asked for support for Crocodiles of the World in his constituency, emphasising the importance of such institutions for conservation work.
Anthony Browne
Lab
Kingswood
Called on the Government to commit ongoing financial support for zoos and aquariums to prevent them from going into debt beyond recovery.
Government Response
The Minister thanked Rosindell for his dedication and acknowledged the critical role of zoos in conservation, education, and public engagement. She announced that safari parks and outdoor areas of zoos would be allowed to reopen from June 15th but indoor attractions like aquariums would remain closed. The government recognised potential financial difficulties faced by these institutions due to decreased visitor numbers and encouraged ongoing application for existing support schemes such as VAT deferral, business rates relief, and loan facilities. She emphasised the importance of zoos and acknowledged the need for further discussions about potentially easing restrictions on other types of animal attractions in the future.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.