HC Deb 06 November 2002 vol 392 cc349-50W
Norman Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make a statement on the controls relating to the sale of imported birds in pet shops. [79032]

Mr. Morley

Any bird which is listed on Annex A of the EU regulations relating to the Control of International Trade in Endangered Species of wild fauna and flora (The CITES regulations) would require a permit for sale from Defra. This would apply whether or not the bird was imported or captive bred within the EU.

The Pet Animals Act 1951 (as amended in 1983) controls the sale of all animals as pets from licensed premises. The 1951 Act requires any person selling pet animals to be licensed by the local authority. Before granting a licence, the authority must satisfy itself that the animals are kept in accommodation that is suitable and clean; that they are supplied with the appropriate food and drink, and are protected from disease and fire. The maximum penalty under the 1951 Act is a fine of £500 and/or three months imprisonment.

The Pet Animals Act 1951 is one of 21 Acts relating to the welfare of domestic and captive animals that are currently reviewing with a view to consolidation and modernisation as part of the proposed Animal Welfare Bill.