Ricky Gervais and Stephen Fry Call for Action on Animal Cruelty Abroad

Comedy stars Ricky Gervais and Stephen Fry are urging the government to enforce a new law aimed at preventing ticket sales for cruel animal attractions abroad. The Animals (Low-Welfare Activities Abroad) Act, passed last September, aims to stop British travel companies from promoting or selling tickets to attractions that do not meet specific animal welfare standards. However, the previous government failed to define these standards, rendering the law ineffective.

Gervais criticized the current situation, stating that the law’s lack of implementation fails to protect animals from suffering at tourist attractions. He emphasized the urgency for the new Labour government to enforce the law to stop “horrendous” attractions. A recent survey by Animals Asia revealed that over half of tourists who witness animal cruelty on vacation feel guilty, with one in ten saying it ruins their holiday.

Stephen Fry echoed Gervais’s concerns, highlighting that most people would avoid booking with agents that sell tickets to mistreated animals. Campaigners stress that a significant number of UK holidaymakers have witnessed animal cruelty abroad, including animals caged in extreme heat or forced into unnatural performances.

Becky Kummer, who witnessed a polar bear in a 35C cage, hopes the new law will eventually put an end to such practices. She regrets her past involvement in activities like elephant rides, now knowing the cruelty behind them.

The campaign, supported by Chris Packham, encourages tourists to report cruel attractions. The Save The Asian Elephants organisation is appealing to the new environment minister, Steve Reed, to ensure the law’s effective implementation. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to improving animal welfare but did not specify actions for this particular law.

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