Written question asked by Chris Mullin (Labour) on Tuesday, 26 March 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 10 April 2002. It was answered by Patricia Hewitt (Labour) on Wednesday, 10 April 2002 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what representations she has made to European Commissioner Byrne regarding his proposed ban on the import into the EU of domestic dog and cat fur; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Mullin: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations she has made to European Commissioner Byrne regarding his proposed ban on the import into the EU of domestic dog and cat fur; and if she will make a statement. [48170] Ms Hewitt: The Commission, like the UK Government are aware of some concerns on animal welfare grounds of the import into the EU of domestic cat and dog fur. We understand there are presently no Commission proposals to ban these products. The UK Government, as my noble Friend the Minister for Trade said in a statement to the Lords and in a letter to all Members of Parliament last November, has undertaken to explore the current situation in the UK before considering the issue on the grounds of what is practical, proportionate and enforceable.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 48170; 383 c373W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Animal welfare Dogs Furs EU action EU external trade Import controls Imports Cats
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk