NORTH EAST MEP HIGHLIGHTS PLIGHT OF ROMANIAN ZOO LIONS

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 11th Oct 2007

Lib Dem MEP Fiona Hall is calling for action on animal welfare standards in Romanian zoos.

Thirty-six Romanian zoos fall below the minimum standards of animal health and welfare required by European law.

Ms Hall has signed a European Parliament written declaration which highlights in particular the case of Gypsi, Romani and Bella - three lions in the Bahusi Zoo in eastern Romania. The three lions live in appalling conditions and are in desperate need of medical attention. It is likely that they will have to be put down.

Fiona Hall said:

"Either the conditions for animals in these zoos must be improved, or new homes must be found for them. As a member of the EU Romania has an obligation to conform to minimum standards of health and welfare for these animals."