HC Deb 04 July 1978 vol 953 cc130-1W
Mr. Stephen Ross

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether the order now in preparation to extend controls under the Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act will definitely include a ban on the commercial trade in all worked tortoiseshell products as well as on oil, calipee and calipash, and leather from marine turtles excepting those specifically farmed for this purpose.

Mr. Denis Howell

The new regulations are intended to bring under control all worked tortoiseshell products of sea turtles of the cheloniidae family. Calipee, calipash and turtle leather are already controlled. Turtle oil is not considered readily recognisable and so is not subject to control. No trade will normally be permitted in turtles listed as Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act 1976, as amended by order. Trade in other turtle species is negligible but will be under strict licensing control.

Licences will be issued only on the advise of the Scientific Authority for Animals.