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Written question asked by Baroness Hayman of Ullock (Labour) on Thursday, 21 September 2023, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 5 October 2023. It was answered by Lord Benyon (Conservative) on Monday, 2 October 2023 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.


Vietnam

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have held with the government of Vietnam regarding reports that unchipped and illegal bears in Nghe An Province have not been confiscated due to violence against enforcement officials by illegal wildlife farmers.

Answer

We have made no assessment or held any discussions with the government of Vietnam on the trafficking or illegal captivity of Asiatic Black Bears. However, in April 2023 Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Thérèse Coffey visited Vietnam and met with her counterparts in the Ministry for Agriculture and Rural Development and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. During this visit the important role of Vietnam in tackling the Illegal Wildlife Trade was discussed.

The UK government fully opposes any intimidation of individuals carrying out official duties and is supportive of a proportionate response that reflects international commitments and due process.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL10406
Session
2022-23
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Animal welfare Conservation Vietnam Bears
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk