New UK law targets ‘cruel’ animal tourism abroad, particularly concerning elephant rides and circus shows

The UK government has enacted a new law to safeguard animals in tourism, applicable in England and Northern Ireland. This law empowers the government to impose a ban on promoting or selling certain forms of wildlife tourism. It aims to target unethical practices abroad, where animals are compelled to engage in activities like taking selfies with tourists, enduring brutal training techniques, or being drugged and kept in captivity. Independent evidence has revealed the harsh treatment these animals endure. The law intends to address issues such as the brutal training of Asian elephants for tourist interactions. UK Animal Welfare Minister Lord Benyon expressed concern over the mistreatment of majestic animals like elephants at foreign tourist attractions.