Written question asked by Oliver Letwin (Conservative) on Tuesday, 8 November 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 10 November 2005. It was answered by Baroness Beckett (Labour) on Wednesday, 23 November 2005 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Wild Birds (Imports)

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how live wild bird commercial imports, which are to be banned, will be distinguished by inspectors from live wild bird pet imports that are being restricted.

Answer: Wild bird pet imports can be distinguished from wild bird commercial imports by inspectors because of the following requirements for wild bird pet imports brought into effect by Commission Decision 2005/759/EC:"pet birds must be accompanied by a declaration by the owner, or representative of the owner, which says that the animals are not intended for commercial purposes;""pet birds must be accompanied by the owner or a representative; and""a consignment of pet birds may only consist of less than five birds."

Secondary information