Rocker Ozzy Osbourne backs Mirror campaign to ban trophy-hunting imports

05 April 2024 , 14:56

1310     0

Brummie rocker Ozzy Osbourne is backing the Mirror's campaign (Image: Getty Images)

Rock legend Ozzy Osbourne has become the latest celebrity to back the Mirror ’s campaign to end trophy-hunting imports.

The Black Sabbath frontman is calling for action, along with actor Brian Cox, chef Delia Smith, boxer Frank Bruno and singer David Essex. Ozzy, 75, said: “The Government has shown its ability to push through animal welfare legislation when it chooses to, so why the delay in fulfilling its promise of a trophy hunting ban – a commitment made nearly five years ago?

“It’s time for action. Let’s hold our leaders accountable and demand that they prioritise the protection of our wildlife over political expediency. The time for decisive action is now.” Since 2019, the Mirror has been campaigning to ban the importation of trophy hunting parts into the UK.

We have exposed a long line of cruel and heartless Brits who have travelled to Africa to ­ruthlessly slaughter majestic giraffes, lions, zebras and even monkeys. Succession star Brian, 77, added: “Everywhere you look, wildlife is on the brink. The last thing lions, elephants and other endangered animals need is for British people to be shooting them for a bit of ‘sport’.

Ozzy is backing the ban on trophy-hunting imports

“The ban put forward by the Government is a positive step and I hope they implement it without delay. We owe it to future generations.” The ban moved one step closer to becoming law after MPs voted on it last month. It will undergo further scrutiny in the House of Lords in May.

Man fined £165 after outraging the internet by dying puppy to look like Pikachu

To become law, it will have to clear its remaining Parliamentary stages before the general election, expected to be held later this year. Labour MP John Spellar said: “The public really do not want these magnificent animals to just be slaughtered, not only for a bizarre form of pleasure but to decorate people’s houses. Australia, France, Belgium and other countries have already shown the way by banning the trade.”

Delia, 82, said: “We must stand up to those engaged in this terrible industry. It is just wrong and cruel to be killing animals because that is what you happen to find thrilling.”

And Frank, 62, added: “All political parties must join together and use some common sense and get this stopped immediately.”

Nada Farhoud