Almost 28,000 people have signed The Independent’s online petition calling for the Government to ban wild animals from circuses, days ahead of a crucial Commons vote. The Independent is hoping that 30,000 people will put their name to the petition by Thursday afternoon, when MPs decide whether to direct the Coalition to bring in a ban. Animal welfare groups are appealing for members of the public to contact their MP to check they will attend and vote in the debate. On Friday The Independent will be publishing the division list showing the voting.