HC Deb 27 July 1988 vol 138 c305W
Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will seek to establish a policy in Hong Kong that in future all seized items of illegally imported animal tusks, skins and antler are burned.

Mrs. Chaiker

The Hong Kong authorities dispose of confiscated specimens in accordance with the convention on international trade in endangered species (CITES) guidelines. Under these guidelines the Hong Kong authorites normaly dispose of animal tusks, skins and antlers by auction (in the case of the less endangered species listed in CITES appendix II) or for educational or scientific purposes (in the case of the most endangered species listed in CITES appendix I). We see no reason to alter these arrangements.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what was the total amount raised at the auction in Hong Kong on 26 February of illegally imported animals tusks, skins and antlers seized by the authorities; to what purpose the revenue raised has been put; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Chaiker

The total amount raised at the auction was HK $2,022,103. The proceeds have been credited to the general revenue of the Hong Kong Government, who provide the funds to the Agriculture and Fisheries Department, which is the management authority responsible for the enforcement and administration of CITES.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if any auctions are impending in Hong Kong of illegally imported animal tusks, skins and antlers which have beeen confiscated.

Mrs. Chalker

The Hong Kong authorities have no plans for any such auctions at present.