Commons Sense

House of Commons · Bill Debate

Shark Fin Control (Prohibition) Bill - Clause not specified, discussing overall ban on import and export of detached shark fins and products

20 January 2023 · 7 other contributors

Opened by Christina Rees Lab Neath

Environment

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Christina Rees raised concerns about shark fin control (prohibition) bill - clause not specified, discussing overall ban on import and export of detached shark fins and products in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • The amendment proposes banning the import and export of detached shark fins and shark fin products in the UK.
  • The purpose is to address overfishing driven by demand for shark products, particularly shark finning.
  • 73 million sharks are killed annually due to illegal trade in detached fins, according to cited statistics.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Christina Rees Lab Neath

The amendment proposes the banning of the import and export of detached shark fins and shark fin products in the UK. The purpose is to improve global shark conservation by addressing overfishing driven by demand for shark products, particularly shark finning. This practice involves removing fins from live sharks and discarding their bodies back into the water where they die due to bleeding or suffocation. The hon. Member emphasises that while traditional uses of shark products are not targeted, ensuring that only ethically landed sharks with naturally attached fins can be sold is crucial for sustainable practices abroad. She cites a call for evidence by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs showing strong opposition to shark finning, and she references statistics indicating that 73 million sharks are killed annually due to illegal trade in detached fins. The Bill aims to follow suit from countries like Canada, India, and the UAE which have already banned such imports and exports.

Other contributors (7)
  • Simon Baynes Con Pudsey

    Asked about the representation of Welsh MPs in presenting Bills. Emphasised that two Welsh MPs are involved, representing 40% of the total membership, highlighting the vibrancy of Welsh democracy.

  • Dean Russell Con Watford

    Expressed support for the Bill on Second Reading and commended the hon. Member for getting it to Third Reading. Highlighted the cruelty of shark finning, stating that sharks are cut off their fins in a horrific manner near boats and then thrown back into water where they drown. Stated agreement with ending this practice through the Bill.

  • Selaine Saxby Con Torridge and West Devon

    Congratulated the hon. Member for introducing important legislation to ban import and export of detached shark fins. Emphasised the importance of sharks in maintaining oceanic balance, noting that overfishing of apex predators like sharks has negative effects on marine biodiversity. Cited estimates suggesting an 80% reduction in carbon capture by seas due to whaling, drawing parallels with the impact of shark finning.

  • Virginia Crosbie Con Ynys Môn

    Supported the Bill as an MP representing a coastal constituency. Cited personal and professional experience with marine life, emphasising the cruelty of shark finning practices where sharks are killed for just their fins, leading to millions dying annually due to such practices. Emphasised that wild shark populations have declined by about 70% since 1970, with some species now critically endangered. Highlighted the role of sharks in maintaining marine biodiversity and ecosystems.

  • Alex Sobel Lab Co-op Leeds Central and Headingley

    Supports the Bill's aim to end shark finning, highlighting its moral imperative. Cites UK’s significant role in importing fins and calls for broader animal welfare measures.

  • Rebecca Pow

    Welcomes the Bill, emphasising its importance for shark conservation. Explains that the practice is banned in the UK for almost 20 years but supports further restrictions to ban detached fins trade. Acknowledges Government's role in supporting the Bill.

  • Christina Rees

    Gratefully acknowledges support from fellow MPs and organisations, emphasising the Bill’s significance for global shark conservation efforts. Expresses hope for its passage to strengthen international standards.

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