TNAG-2133-FCO40-3048-Hong-Kong-and-the-ivory-trade-1990 — Page 156

DECISION EXTREMELY UNPOPULAR IN UK

Cannot deny that many people did not agree with the decision to

enter a Reservation. We have received 4000 letters from the public

and more than 350 Members of Parliament have also written on

behalf of their constituents.

HONG KONG CUSTOMS CONTROLS NOT ADEQUATE ONLY 1% OF

TRAVELLERS CHECKED

This is misleading. Like all Customs authorities worldwide

Hong Kong Customs work on a mix of random and targeted checks.

PROPOSAL BY WWF THAT IVORY BE KEPT FROM NOW ON IN BONDED WAREHOUSE

We are aware that WWF are working on a proposal that all ivory

be stored in a bonded warehouse and that dealers will have to

explain all sales from the stocks kept within. We have not

however received any firm proposal from WWF. We shall of course

look at it carefully.

SMUGGLING OF IVORY FROM HONG KONG TO JAPAN

This is obviously a matter of concern. Pleased that Japanese Customs stopped this consignment. Hong Kong Customs will

be working hard to ensure there is no repeat of this unfortunate

incident.

WILL RESPONSIBILITY FOR IVORY NOW BE HANDED BACK TO DOE?

Responsiblity for CITES never left DOE. FCO led on Hong Kong

ivory because we are responsible for seeing that our

Dependent Territories comply with international conventions to

which they, through the UK, are parties.