Key Facts

• Clause 1 addresses the prohibition on keeping primates without a licence.
• Members are reminded to switch electronic devices to silent mode during sittings.
• Masks must be worn when not speaking in accordance with Government guidance.
• The amendment aims to translate what was promised in the Conservative manifesto into legislative action.
• Witnesses testified that very few people can provide zoo-equivalent conditions for primates kept as pets, with estimates ranging from hundreds but likely fewer.
• Several organizations, including RSPCA, Blue Cross and Wildlife and Countryside Link, express disappointment with the proposed licensing system.
• The amendment seeks a ban with no exemptions.
• There are estimated up to 5,000 primates being kept privately in the UK.
• Only 19 out of 4,500 respondents opposed the licensing scheme in the public consultation.
• Dr Jo Judge and Dr Alison Cronin supported the licensing system approach.
• Amendments aim to strengthen the licensing system for primates.
• The amendments would ensure that keepers meet the welfare needs as required by the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and associated Code of Practice.
• Concerns about a possible sudden rush and welfare crisis during transition periods are raised.
• Part of the issue is not knowing how many primates are in private ownership.
• Existing keepers will have two years to either meet licensing standards or rehome their primate.
• The schedule introduces a transitional registration scheme for those who keep primates before the prohibition comes into force.
• Amendments 4, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 18 are proposed by the government.
• Amendment 4 ensures premises are stated on primate licences.
• Amendments 10 and 14 allow local authorities to consider past failures and conduct when granting/renewing licences.
• Amendment 12 allows for reducing the number of primates specified on a licence, considering social needs.
• Amendment 11 restricts changes to licensed premises within the same local authority area.
• Amendment 13 requires inspections before moving primates to new premises.
• The proposed amendment would reduce primate licences from six years to two years.
• Local authorities will be able to charge fees for licence applications, inspections, and registration under a transition scheme.
• Regular inspections are planned over the six-year period to ensure compliance with welfare conditions.
• Amendments 107, 108, and 109 are proposed to address primate welfare.
• Amendment 107 would require licensing conditions to include social grouping of primates.
• Amendment 108 would mandate microchipping for licensed primates.
• Regulations for licensing standards are being developed with primate welfare experts.
• Microchipping of licensed primates is planned but will include exemptions for vulnerable animals.
• Licence holders must provide key information on births, deaths, and transfers to local authorities.
• Amendments would require premises inspections for primate licences to be conducted by a competent veterinary surgeon or zoo inspector.
• The term 'specialist' in amendments may confuse as it has specific meanings in veterinary practice.
• Amending the wording to 'competent' and 'experienced' is suggested.
• The amendment allows local authorities to consider previous failures by applicants to meet licensing standards.
• There are approximately 10.8 million cats in the UK for context regarding vet workload.
• The number of veterinarians with relevant expertise for primate inspections is estimated at around 50.
• Amendments made include changes to appeal processes in Wales.
• Clause 6 requires licence holders to meet certain conditions.
• Clause 7 allows for variations in licensing based on new premises or reduced primate numbers with inspection requirements.
• Clause 8 permits local authorities to consider past breaches and conduct during renewal processes.
• The clause allows local authorities to charge fees for licensing scheme administration.
• Fees will reflect the costs of administering the licensing regime in each area.
• Guidance on fee ranges will be provided by the Government and devolved Administrations.
• Clause 14 enables local authorities to revoke or vary primate licences.
• Clause 15 allows local authorities to monitor unlicensed primates and ensure their basic welfare needs are met.
• Clause 16 provides for the determination of applications under the licensing system, ensuring compliance with higher welfare standards.
• Amendment 113 proposes changing 'put down' to 'humanely euthanised' in clause 16(2)(c), but is withdrawn without further action.
• Clause 17 prohibits selling primates to unlicensed persons and covers both private traders and third-party sellers.
• The clause aims to prevent unscrupulous breeders from fueling a market for pet primates kept in low-welfare conditions.
• Schedule 4 provides local authorities with powers to support investigation and enforcement of offences related to primate keeping, breeding, and sale.
• Government amendment 18 ensures that any guidance developed will be published to maintain transparency.