Written question asked by Laurence Robertson (Conservative) on Tuesday, 13 January 2009, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 19 January 2009. It was answered by Ian Pearson (Labour) on Tuesday, 27 January 2009 on behalf of the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform.

Textiles: Imports

Question: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform what his policy is on the importation of fur from Canadian black seals for use in making hats; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: [holding answer 19 January 2009]: The Government's opposition to the annual Canadian seal hunt is well known and remains unchanged. We have lobbied to promote EU-wide action and we are pleased that on 23 July 2008, the European Commission proposed an EU-wide ban on the import, export and sale of seal products from a range of species where it cannot be proved that the seals were killed without suffering avoidable pain or distress. The Government welcomes this proposal and is working with the European Commission to introduce effective legislation as quickly as possible. Our aim is for a complete ban on the commercial trade in all pinniped products (i.e. seals, sea lions and walrus).

Secondary information