Hanson said she wanted a ban on keeping primates as pets because of the welfare issues.
“We see from our rescues, across the range of species in the UK primate pet trade, that they will all suffer from physical, as well as psychological illnesses … diabetes, heart conditions, arthritis, chronic pain and abnormal behaviours,” she said.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said: “Primates are highly intelligent and complex animals, and new laws mean that where they are kept by private keepers they must be provided with zoo-level welfare standards.
“We urge private keepers to make sure they are licensed and complying with these high welfare standards and we are working with local authorities on how to enforce the new licensing scheme.”