TNAG-1954-FCO40-2783-Trade-of-rare-and-endangered-species-in-Hong-Kong-1989 — Page 51

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6.15.1989

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a loophole for poached ivory to enter trade. I am satisfied that

the threat to the elephant is so serious that in the short term

the safest course is to stop imports of all forms of ivory,

including antiques.

A9 (ii) I understand the noble Lords' concern, and I agree with

him that the import of genuine antique ivory would not have a

harmful effect on the conservation of the species. Subject

therefore to the outcome of our discussions with our European

colleagues on the precise details of the proposed Community-wide

ban, I would be happy to consider applications for the import of

antique ivory.

Q10 Will UK allow import of strictly personal/household effects

made from ivory?

A10 The personal effects derogation, which permits the import of

such items, remains in force, but this is one of the issues we

shall need to thrash out in consultation with our European

partners and officials will be discussing the scope and operation

of the proposed Community ban at the EC CITES Committee meeting

on 22 June.