Debates between Gavin Robinson and Thérèse Coffey during the 2017-2019 Parliament

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Gavin Robinson and Thérèse Coffey
Thursday 25th January 2018

(6 years, 11 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Thérèse Coffey Portrait Dr Coffey
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The UK Government have been active in taking practical action to reduce demand and strengthen enforcement. We are investing in schemes around the world to reduce this pernicious trade. DEFRA and the Home Office continue to fund the national wildlife crime unit to tackle wildlife crime here in the UK. Actionable intelligence is key, and I assure my hon. Friend that we will continue to make this a priority.

Gavin Robinson Portrait Gavin Robinson (Belfast East) (DUP)
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I support the noble aim of both the Secretary of State and the Minister in this regard, but the hon. Lady will be aware of concerns among antique dealers about the ramifications for products that contain historical ivory. Can she offer any assurance to assuage their concerns that the sale of ivory that has been in antiques for generations will be allowed to continue?

Thérèse Coffey Portrait Dr Coffey
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We are considering the matter carefully, but we need to have a comprehensive ban. In the consultation, we put forward a suggestion on several exemptions, and we are looking through the responses to that particularly carefully. Nevertheless, it is important that we recognise that having ivory as a valuable object just because it is ivory is something that we simply do not want in this country or around the world, which is why we are taking strong action.