Written question asked by Sarah Dyke (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 18 May 2026. It was answered by Angela Eagle (Labour) on Tuesday, 19 May 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Reindeer

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what consideration they have made to adding exemption guidance to farmed reindeer in the Standards of Modern Zoo Practice 2027.

Answer

The Standards of Modern Zoo Practice for Great Britain, published in May 2025, apply to all zoos in Great Britain licensed under the Zoo Licensing Act 1981 (the 1981 Act).

The 1981 Act provides for exemptions or dispensations for small collections depending on the number and types of animals kept. A collection consisting of just a small number of reindeer (no more than 50) can already apply for a dispensation which can help reduce zoo licensing inspection costs.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 857
Session: 2026-27
Subjects: Standards Zoos Reindeer
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

Reindeer

Secondary information

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