DEPARTMENT FOR
BUSINESS, ENTERPRISE AND REGULATORY REFORM News Release (2007/112)
issued by The Government News Network on 27 November 2007
Trade Minister
Gareth Thomas and Animal Welfare Minister Jeff Rooker, today
welcomed an EU-wide ban on the production, marketing, import and
export of cat and dog fur.
The ban has today been approved and introduced into EU law by the
European Council of Ministers and will apply from 31 December 2008.
Welcoming the announcement, Gareth Thomas, Minister for Trade said:
"This is great news as this appalling trade in cat and dog
fur products is unacceptable.
"I share the revulsion people feel about this and this is
why we have pushed for an EU-wide ban where it will be most
effective in stopping this sickening business."
Jeff Rooker, Minister for Animal Welfare said:
"I am very pleased that we have achieved such a positive
result. This EU-wide ban on cat and dog fur products is a
significant step towards stamping out this disgusting trade once
and for all.
."It sets a precedent and is an example to
the rest of the world. We sincerely hope other countries will follow."
Notes for Editors
1. The final EU proposals allow for two very limited exceptions
for taxidermy and specific educational purposes. These exemptions
still mean that all commercial trade will be illegal. The UK
argued for a full ban but accepted these minor amendments in order
to allow a full commercial ban to be put in place.
2. The ban will come into force from 31 December 2008. The delay
in implementation is to allow member states sufficient time to
introduce sanctions for breaching this legislation which are a
national rather than EU competence.
3. There has been considerable concern about the trade in cat and
dog fur across the EU although, to date, there has been little
evidence of imports into the UK.
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