_GATE HSE
07.19.1989 16:58
NO.27
P. 5
4F
advice.
The Minister will wish to note, however, that if we allow large quantities of ivory from Hong Kong into the UK,
we could attract criticism from NGOs. Certain NGOS believe
that to allow any trade provides a loophole for illegal
ivory to enter the market; indeed we have used the same argument in responding to letters from traders in Hong Kong. NGOS are particularly concerned about the ivory in Hong Kong believing that much of it is of illegal origin, and some has been smuggled into the colony. But provided that the applications for re-imports are rigourously examined,
should be able to defend ourselves against criticisms:
It is also necessary to take into account the possibility of a legal challenge on the grounds that it would be unreasonable to refuse to re-import good the import of which
have previously been allowed.
In summary, I should be grateful to learn if the Minister is content that we should take the following line at the EC CITES meeting on 27/28 July:-
(a) to agree to allow the import of elephants and elephant products in the circumstances out in para 3
above;
(b)
to agree to the import of ivory in accordance with existing contractual arrangements, provided that the circumstances in which the import is to be allowed can be more precisely defined and the majority of the
other Member States are in favour of the proposal;
(c) To explain the Hong Kong position and to agree
to the re-import of ivory provided the importer can prove to the satisfaction of the Management Authority in question that the ivory was originally imported
legally into the EC; that there are no other conservation requirements which militate against issue
of a licence; and that each case is considered on its
merits.