HC Deb 17 May 1976 vol 911 cc340-1W
Mr. David Hunt

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what criteria Her Majesty's Customs and Excise employ when deciding whether or not to prosecute in cases when they suspect that birds, animals or animal skins have been imported in breach of the relevant regulations.

Mr. Robert Sheldon

Where animals, birds or animal skins are imported contrary to a prohibition or restriction imposed for conservation reasons, Her Majesty's Customs and Excise prosecute in cases where the evidence is sufficient to support proceedings for an offence under the Customs and Excise Act 1952. They would exercise their powers to compound proceedings under section 288 of the Act only in exceptional circumstances.

Mr. David Hunt

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many reports of alleged illegal importation of birds of prey were made to Her Majesty's Customs and Excise in the years 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974 and 1975; how many of these were investigated; and how many were prosecuted.

Mr. Robert Sheldon

As far as can now be ascertained five reports alleging illegal importation of birds of prey were received by Her Majesty's Customs and Excise from non-Government sources during the years in question, one report being received during 1971 and four during 1974. Each of these reports was investigated. Seizure and prosecution resulted in one case, the defendant being fined, and a seizure was made in another case.

During the same years, 1971 to 1975, one further successful prosecution was taken, and ten seizures made, by Her Majesty's Customs and Excise as a result of action initiated within that Department.