As a backbench MP in 2016 I was pleased to support a Private Members Bill calling for a ban on wild animals performing in circuses. I was very pleased therefore to see this return as Government legislation last week, and begin its journey through the House of Commons.

The Wild Animals in Circuses Bill means that circus operators in England will no longer be able to use wild animals as part of a travelling circus. This builds on other measures the Government have taken to strengthen animal protections, including banning ivory sales to protect elephants and delivering Finn’s Law to strengthen the protection of service animals.

There is a duty on us all to leave our planet in a better state for our children, and this means also including stronger protection for animal welfare. As a nation of animal lovers this new law makes common sense. Campaign groups such as the RSPCA have welcomed us bringing forward this legislation. Travelling circuses are no place for wild animals in the 21st century and I am pleased we are taking action to end this cruel practice.