Despite support from across the political spectrum, animal welfare campaigners and the general public, legislation passed by MPs to ban the use of wild animals in travelling circuses has been blocked. These circuses provide a distressing and inhumane environment for these animals and I will be doing all I can in this parliament to work with other MPs to ensure that a ban can be implemented as soon as possible.

The Conservatives in government have shown a callous disregard for animal welfare, from implementing a badger cull to their plan to re-introduce hunting with dogs. The last Labour government prioritised humane treatment of animals: banning hunting, securing an end to cosmetic testing, banning fur farming and introducing the Animal Welfare Act 2006. I have already received many emails on topics relating to animal welfare and assure you that these issues will be among my top priorities during the next five years