Written question asked by Paul Flynn (Labour) on Friday, 30 January 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 11 February 2004. It was answered by Mike O'Brien (Labour) on Wednesday, 11 February 2004 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what recent representations he has made to the European Union regarding an EU ban on the trade in domestic dog and cat fur.

Answer: Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent representations he has made to the European Union regarding an EU ban on the trade in domestic dog and cat fur. [152853] Mr. Mike O'Brien: The UK Government's view is that any action on the issue of the alleged trade in domestic cat and dog fur would be most effective if taken at EU level. In November 2002, my noble Friend, the then Minister for International Trade and Investment publicly supported calls by the European Parliament for an EU ban on the trade in these furs. Late last year, the UK Government also supported Denmark and the Netherlands in calls for the European Commission to consider measures to put an end to any import of domestic cat and dog fur. The Government continue to be in regular contact with other interested member states to discuss what proportionate action on this issue may be appropriate at EU level.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 417 c1477W; 152853
Session: 2003-04
Subjects: Animal welfare Dogs Furs EU action EU external trade Overseas trade Cats
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk