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Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill - Sitting 1

25 January 2023

Proposing MP
Mark Hendrick Lab Co-op
Preston
Type
Public Bill Committee

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement discusses Clause 1 of the Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill, which aims to ban British hunters from importing bodies and body parts of endangered species. The statement discusses the importance of the Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill and addresses concerns related to its implementation, especially concerning the Northern Ireland protocol. The statement discusses the proposed Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill which aims to ban the import of hunting trophies from endangered species. The MP is supporting the Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill and discussing its necessity. The statement discusses support for the Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill and addresses concerns about trophy hunting of endangered species. The statement discusses the Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill and its aim to prohibit the importation of hunting trophies from endangered species. The Minister is discussing the progress and future of the Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill.

Action Requested

The MP seeks assurances from the Government on facilitating the Bill's passage through Parliament and ensuring its enforcement by Border Force staff. He also requests that the Minister address concerns about the timing of when sections of the Bill will come into force.

Key Facts

  • The Bill enjoys support from 86% of voters, wildlife charities, conservationists, and African leaders.
  • Over 44,000 people and entities participated in a public consultation on the Bill.
  • Nine out of ten submissions received by the Government supported the proposed ban.
  • The Bill aims to prevent the import of trophies from endangered species.
  • Concerns have been raised about potential loopholes related to the Northern Ireland protocol.
  • The hon. Member for Bristol East highlighted a case involving hunting trips promoted by a Danish company in Bedfordshire.
  • The Bill covers endangered species listed in CITES annexes A and B.
  • Big cats such as lions and leopards have seen their numbers fall by 90% in the last half century.
  • There are only around 30,000 zebras left globally.
  • Polar bears are covered under the Bill regardless of location, with an estimated 26,000 remaining.
  • Clause 1 prohibits importation of hunting trophies from animals hunted after the clause comes into force and being brought into Great Britain by or on behalf of the hunter.
  • Clause 2 sets out species in scope of the import prohibition, including those listed in annexes A and B to the wildlife trade regulations.
  • Clause 3 ensures the ban applies to Northern Ireland with certain exemptions.
  • 86% of those surveyed believe there should be an immediate import ban.
  • Elephant numbers are now in a critical situation due to trophy hunting.
  • Lion numbers have decreased to about 200,000.
  • Leopard numbers fell from 700,000 in the 1960s to 50,000 today.
  • Hippopotamus population is down by 20% due to trophy hunting.
  • The number of trophies imported into the UK increased from 17 per year in 1981 to 300 before the pandemic.
  • The Bill aims to protect iconic animals such as lions, rhinos, elephants, and polar bears.
  • The Minister has had detailed conversations with Members and DEFRA officials regarding the evidence.
  • There are concerns about potential lobbying against the Bill.
  • Around 1 million animal and plant species are threatened with extinction.
  • From 2011 to 2020, the UK recorded 731 imports of hunting trophies under CITES.
  • Over 85% of the 44,000 responses to a consultation supported further action for a ban.
  • The Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill is a reserved matter.
  • There will be interest in monitoring and publishing how effective the ban is.
  • Border Force is expected to have sufficient skills at ports and airports to enforce the ban.
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