Mr. BanksTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will take steps to identify African elephant products in the overseas trade statistics; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Lilley[holding answer 19 October 1989]: The main trade in elephant products is in ivory. Currently, trade in both new and worked ivory is identified in the Overseas Trade Statistics.
Trade is not normally allowed in Indian elephant ivory under the convention on international trade in endangered species of fauna and flora (CITES). Similar strict controls will now apply to African elephant ivory following agreement this week at the CITES conference.
In the United Kingdom, strict controls were introduced on imports of ivory from 9 June 1989. From 17 August 1989, these controls have been applied in the European Community under Commission Regulation 2496/89.
Figures relating to trade in goods included under CITES are published by the European Commission.
Ivory
§ Mr. Tony BanksTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is now in a position to give details regarding the five consignments of raw ivory which were being held at Heathrow airport when he replied to the hon. Member for Newham, North-West on 6 June,Official Report, column 118.
§ Mr. Ryder[holding answer 18 October 1989]: The position remains as outlined in the answer given to the hon. Member on 6 June at column 118.
§ Mr. Tony BanksTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what information he has regarding seizures of ivory at ports of entry since 12 April.
§ Mr. Ryder[holding answer 18 October 1989]: Customs continue to seize consignments of illegally imported ivory.
287WMost seizures, often involving small quantities, are made locally without reference to Customs HQ. Statistical information is compiled only periodically. Up-to-date details could be obtained only at disproportionate expense.