HC Deb 11 February 1991 vol 185 c302W
Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many prosecutions were entered as a result of articles relating to rare and endangered species seized by Her Majesty's Customs and Excise in the year to 31 March 1990.

Mrs. Gillian Shephard

[holding answer 8 February 1991]: During the year in question four prosecutions, involving five persons, were instituted under the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979, for attempted evasion of the endangered species restrictions. All related to live creatures or plants, rather than to articles derived from them.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, further to his answer of 1 February,Official Report, column 678, if he will give details of the 1,546 live animals and birds seized by Her Majesty's Customs and Excise in the year to 31 March 1990; and what is Her Majesty's Government's policy in respect of the disposal of such creatures.

Mrs. Gillian Shephard

[holding answer 8 February 1991]: The total of 1,546 live animals and birds was made up of the following categories:

Category Number seized
Monkeys 8
Wild feline 1
Snakes 171
Tortoises 48
Turtles 90
Lizards 571
Frogs 40
Toads 50
Salamanders 12
Parrots 22
Other birds 533

As to disposal of such creatures, I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to him on 21 July 1990 at column 417. Policy in this area remains unchanged.