§ John MannTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what progress has been made with the review on legislation covering the trafficking of endangered species. [72702]
§ Mr. Meacher[holding answer 24 July 2002]: A pre-consultation paper outlining the Government's initial proposals for the review of the Control of Trade in 285W Endangered Species (Enforcement) Regulations 1997 was sent to all the main stakeholder organisations on 18 July. We have asked for comments by 30 August 2002.
§ Mr. WrayTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many types of animals in the UK are on the endangered species list; and what measures she is taking to increase their numbers. [72530]
§ Mr. MeacherMy scientific advisors on wildlife issues, the Joint Nature Conservation Committee, have advised that there are approximately 1785 invetebrate, two amphibian, two reptile, six bird and one mammal species which are endangered. In 1995 the UK Biodiversity Action Plan was published and more recently a significant number of specific Action Plans have been finalised. These are targeted at the conservation needs of rare species and habitats and are being implemented through broad partnerships of government, statutory conservation agencies and the voluntary sector. The Biodiversity Action Plans encourage positive actions for rare species at a range of scales, from national to local, and by a range of organisations. Monitoring will provide feedback on the efficacy of the implementation of the plans.