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Written question asked by Barry Sheerman (Labour) on Wednesday, 16 March 2022, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 18 March 2022. It was answered by Jo Churchill (Conservative) on Thursday, 24 March 2022 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Foie Gras and Furs: Imports

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what the Government's timetable is for making a decision on banning the import of fur and foie gras products.

Answer

Now we have left the EU, the Government is able to explore potential action in relation to animal fur, in line with the Government’s commitment to improving animal welfare standards as set out in the Action Plan for Animal Welfare. We are reviewing the evidence gathered both from our Call for Evidence and wider engagement with the fur trade and stakeholders, and a summary of responses will be published soon.

Regarding foie gras, the Government has made clear that the production of force-fed foie gras raises serious welfare concerns. We are now able to consider any further steps that could be taken in relation to foie gras that is produced overseas using force feeding practices, such as restrictions on import and sale. We continue to gather information and speak to a range of interested parties about the issues involved.

We will update members accordingly when this evidence gathering process is concluded for both fur and foie gras.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
141126
Session
2021-22
Subjects
Furs Imports Regulation Foie gras
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk