Written question asked by Paul Flynn (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 18 June 1997. It was answered by Barbara Roche (Labour) on Wednesday, 18 June 1997 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: What quantity of (a) caviar and (b) shark meat is currently imported into the United Kingdom per annum.

Answer: Mr. Flynn: To ask the President of the Board of Trade what quantity of (a) caviar and (b) shark meat is currently imported into the United Kingdom per annum; and if she will make a statement. [2700] Mrs. Roche: In 1996 the UK imported 31 metric tonnes of caviar (sturgeon roe) worth £5.6 million. Information on shark meat is not available. The convention on International trade in Endangered Species (CITES) will be holding its biennial meeting between the 9-20 June, in Zimbabwe. During the Conference proposals on the listing of sturgeon and monitoring of shark species will be discussed. The UK will consider all conference proposals carefully and in consideration with our colleagues from the other EU Member States.

Secondary information