Southend West MP, Sir David Amess, recently attended a parliamentary reception held by the British & Irish Association of Zoos & Aquariums to show his support for animal welfare standards. The event, which took place on Tuesday 13 June, was also attended by other Members of Parliament who shared the same interests. As a life-long animal welfare advocate, Sir David was keen to hear from BIAZA about how they champion animal welfare standards in the modern zoo.

The MP for Southend West said:

“I am pleased to have spoken to a number of representatives from BIAZA today about their history of promoting animal welfare standards in zoos and aquariums. Over the past 50 years the association has grown to become an internationally respected conservation organisation.

It is sad that even in this day and age we still see failings in animal welfare standards around the world. However it is wonderful to hear that organisations such as BIAZA seek to make real changes to the standards we see in zoos across the world. Therefore it comes as no shock that they have long been recognised as one of the global leaders in setting standards for the modern zoo and the promotion of good welfare for zoo animals.”