Age bar to limit sales of pets.

CHILDREN under 16 may be banned from buying pets under government proposals published today.

Youngsters aged 12 and over can now legally buy dogs, cats and hamsters from pet shops.

But the age limit could be raised from 12 to 16 under plans being considered by Animal Welfare Minister Elliot Morley.

Circus animals are also likely to receive greater protection if the consultation paper is turned into law.

Those born in the wild may be barred from performing while the use of tethers, goads and whips to train any animal would be restricted.

The law is likely to include higher standards for the housing of all animals, including horses, when they are not performing.

It would mean circuses would have to keep animals in winter quarters of the same standard as those demanded in zoos.

Mr Morley said a comprehensive review was needed of the 11 acts of Parliament regulating the treatment of animals.

"This is a broad and sensitive area of legislation on which we plan to consult widely and openly to make sure the law reflects the animal welfare needs of the 21st century," he said.

The RSPCA welcomed the review, particularly the proposals to raise the age at which pets can be bought, a move it has campaigned for, although it would like to see the limit set at 18 rather than the 16 suggested in the proposals.