TNAG-1954-FCO40-2783-Trade-of-rare-and-endangered-species-in-Hong-Kong-1989 — Page 58

'89-06-14 17:16

forests, which are important wildlife habitats.

8. We are ready to discuss with African governments further support

for wildlife conservation including measures to protect elephants.

IF RAISED

COMPENSATION

P.15

9.

No plans to offer "compensation" to African countries affected by ban. Some financial loss likely in the short-term, but should be balanced against long-term losses in tourist income such countries would suffer if elephants continue to be lost. African Governments called for

ban.

(IF PRESSED)

10.

SAS

Issue for international community, not single donor country.

11.

Also heard the rumour that HMG will be giving "SAS" training to Kenya to help stop poaching. Not Government practice to discuss special forces matters but, off-the-record, no truth in it at all.

HONG KONG

12. Hong Kong Government takes very seriously its responsibilities as a party to CITES and has always complied fully with CITES provisions. On 9 June it announced that it would support the upgrading of the African elephant to CITES Appendix 1 status.

tthe a

a brithe Gruda

of bear, hory