§ Keith VazTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps the Government are taking to stop the illegal trade in ivory. [76094]
§ Mr. MorleyCommercial trade in ivory is currently prohibited under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). In order to prevent illegal trade, the UK has strict controls which are actively enforced by HM Customs and Excise. Between 1 April and 30 September 2002, Customs made 55 seizures of ivory, including two weighing 26.6kg and 445kg. Under the Customs and Excise Management Act (1979) the illegal import or export of ivory can result in an unlimited fine and/or up to seven years imprisonment. Similarly, under the Control of
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§ Alun MichaelDefra came into existence in June 2001 as a result of machinery of Government changes. It took several months to incorporate all staff of the new organisation into the Department's HR system. Therefore, the information requested is not available for the period in question.