HC Deb 23 March 1978 vol 946 cc732-3W
Mr. Rooker

asked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will give consideration to the banning of the importation and auctioning of Canadian seal pelts.

Dr. Glyn

asked the Secretary of State for Trade, in view of public concern over the method and extent of the slaughter of young seals in Canada, what action he is taking with regard to the import of young seal pelts.

Mr. Mudd

asked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will now consider a ban on all imports of seal skins and sealskin products to the United Kingdom.

Mr. Meacher,

pursuant to his reply to the hon. Member for Falmouth and Camborne (Mr. Mudd) [Official Report, Vol. 946, c. 432], gave the following information:

This matter has been considered before and an import ban has been thought to be inappropriate. I am, however, fully aware of the extent of public concern over the events of the annual Canadian seal cull, and I have therefore decided to consult further with other interested Departments in order to determine whether there should be a revision of the Government's attitude.