§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what special training and qualifications in the identification of threatened animals and plants are required for those persons responsible for policing the Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act 1976; [10412]
(2) how many successful prosecutions have been brought under the Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act 1976. [10411]
252W
§ Mr. ClappisonThe Act originally implemented the convention on international trade in endangered species of wild fauna and flora in the UK. In 1984 it was largely superseded by EC legislation, which implemented the convention throughout the Community.
There is no comprehensive record of convictions for CITES offences. However, we are aware that since 1990, 40 successful cases have been brought under the CITES enforcement regulations, 13 people have been successfully prosecuted under Customs legislation and a further six people have been prosecuted under the Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act.
Training is primarily a matter for the enforcement authorities. HM Customs and Excise include CITES in their basic training and the police advise their forces that wildlife issues should be included in their initial training. Customs officers at ports and airports have access to comprehensive written guidance on CITES and the species it covers. Each of the 14 Customs zones has designated a CITES liaison and intelligence officer, and every police force now has at least one designated police wildlife liaison officer. These officers are a source of information and advice.
Both Customs and the police can call upon experts for assistance in species identification and other specialist matters, including from my Department's wildlife inspectorate, non-governmental organisations and universities.