Captive Birds (Hansard, 20 February 1991)

§ Mr. Maclean

The second report by the Ministry on mortalities in imported captive birds, relating to imports in 1989, shows that of 184,600 birds, 4,000 were dead on arrival and a further 19,500 died in post-import quarantine. The average mortality has fallen slightly to 12.7 per cent. compared with 13.7 per cent. in the previous year, but the figures are still a grave cause for concern. I am placing copies of the report in the Library of the House.

For wild-caught birds these statistics do not reveal the full extent of losses. We do not know how many birds are dying from stress just after capture and in transport within the country of origin, but it must be assumed that numbers will be high. I do not find such levels of mortality acceptable and the Department is doing all that it can to reduce losses.

In the past year our veterinary officials have visited certain major exporting countries and more visits are planned. During these visits we impress on the relevant authorities the need to fulfil our import requirements and to follow International Air Transport Association—IATA—standards during flights to the United Kingdom. We are considering revised requirements for pre-export isolation and certification where appropriate. We will cease to authorise imports of birds from any country which fails to co-operate in implementing our requirements.

I have written to airlines to emphasise the importance of complying with the IATA rules and of reviewing airline procedures where necessary. Since then some have decided not to transport birds on certain routes.

I have instituted a review of standards in quarantine premises for birds with particular reference to stocking densities. As a result, the number of birds permitted in each quarantine premises, based on their physiological and behavioural needs, will be specified. These measures, which will be introduced as quickly as possible, are expected to result in a reduction in consignment sizes in 165W many cases especially for non-psittacine species. Irrespective of this the maximum number of non-psittacines in any consignment permitted in any licence issued from 1 April will be reduced from 6,000 to 4,000.

Applicants for licences to import birds are also now required to provide more detailed information. Further changes are also being considered to tighten the application of our disease prevention rules.

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment is considering what further action can be taken within his responsibilities. We have also drawn our concerns to the attention of the European Commission who have agreed that controls are needed on trade in species which are particularly vulnerable during captivity and transport. This issue, and the development of common welfare standards for transport, will be taken forward in Community discussions.

Government action can, however, only achieve so much. Many of the problems with this trade would be reduced if the public no longer purchased captive birds. There are a number of species of birds which simply should not be taken from the wild and subjected to captivity. No one should even consider buying or keeping birds unless proper care and facilities are available. Captive bred stock should be used whenever possible in order to minimise the taking of wild specimens.