HC Deb 15 February 1989 vol 147 cc276-7W
Ms. Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what negotiations have taken place within the European Economic Community with regard to a renewal of the ban on the importing of white coat pups of harp and hooded seals, except those from traditional hunting by the Inuit people, under European Community directive 83/129/EEC; and if he will make a statement;

(2) if he will make a statement on his policy towards the European Community directive 83/129/EEC, and towards its extension beyond 1 October 1989.

Mrs. Virginia Bottomley

The Government fully supported EC directive 83/129/EEC, and the subsequent extension of the ban on the import of harp and hooded seal pup skins and products, on conservation grounds. I understand that the European Commission is considering the future of the ban. We have not yet been formally consulted. We shall give careful consideration to any proposals for a further extension of the ban.