ENVIRONMENT COUNCIL: 8/9 JUNE 1989
BABY SEALS
BACKGROUND
1.
In 1983 the European Commission (EC) introduced Directive 83/129/EEC
instigating a 2 year
ban on the import of harp and hooded seal pup skins and products. The UK strongly supported the Directive on conservation grounds and,
after a report commissioned by the Department from the Sea Mammal Research Unit
(SMRU) showed that both species remained vulnerable, the UK persuaded the EC to
extend the ban for a further 4 years, expiring at the end of September 1989.
2.
The EC have now proposed an indefinite extension of the ban (Annex I), Taking into account a further report from SMRU, which contains no evidence to
suggest that the ban should be lifted, the UK announced its support for the Commission's proposal on 18 May (Annex II).
Line to Take
Agree to adoption. Commission's proposal.
If necessary
press other member states to support the
DRA2
May 1989