Lord De Mauley

As an endangered species, the international trade in European eel is regulated through the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Any exports are subject to rigorous scrutiny, including through assessments of legal acquisition and non-detriment.

The UK’s approach to these exports is being reviewed by the new Government to ensure legality, sustainability, and alignment with global conservation efforts.

The export of European eel to Russia is not currently sanctioned.

The Veterans' Strategy applies to all those who have previously served in HM Forces, Regular and Reserve. The Strategy is an important milestone in this government's work to renew the UK's contract with those who serve and have served.

It resets the narrative around the remarkable men and women who have served in our Armed Forces, ensuring all veterans' service is celebrated, their potential to make further contributions is realised and, for those that need it, that the right support is available to them.

The strategy is aligned with key Ministry of Defence priorities, the Strategic Defence Review and the extension of the Armed Forces Covenant, together with the government's wider Plan for Change.

I refer the noble Lord to the answer given by my hon. Friend, the Minister for Veterans and People (Al Carns) in the House of Commons on 13 June 2025 to Question 57778 to the hon. Member for Huntingdon (Ben Obese-Jecty).

I refer the noble Lord to the reply given by my hon. Friend, the Minister for Veterans and People (Alistair Carns), in the House of Commons on 27 November 2024 to the hon. Member for Hinckley and Bosworth (Dr Luke Evans) in response to Question 15010.