§ Mr. MullinTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations she has made to European Commissioner Byrne regarding his proposed ban on the import into the EU of domestic dog and cat fur; and if she will make a statement. [48170]
§ Ms HewittThe Commission, like the UK Government are aware of some concerns on animal welfare grounds of the import into the EU of domestic cat and dog fur. We understand there are presently no Commission proposals to ban these products. The UK Government, as my noble Friend the Minister for Trade said in a statement to the Lords and in a letter to all Members of Parliament last November, has undertaken to explore the current situation in the UK before considering the issue on the grounds of what is practical, proportionate and enforceable.