§ Lord SKELMERSDALEasked Her Majesty's Government:
What training is given to officers of HM Customs enabling them to identify consignments of flora and fauna, and to decide whether or not they fall within the provisions of the Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act 1976.
§ Lord COCKFIELDThe training of Customs officers covers the enforcement of import and export restrictions, including those imposed by the Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act 1976, and written instructions are provided relating to each restriction. Expert advice is made available when required, e.g., in cases of doubt or when identification to particular species is necessary.