Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if he will conduct a review into the issuing of licences for the importation of hunting trophies.

The Government takes the conservation of species seriously.

The import of hunting trophies from endangered species into the UK is already subject to strict controls. A permit will only be issued if no detrimental impact on the survival of endangered species is demonstrated and the item has been obtained from a legal and sustainable hunting operation. This means imports of certain species from certain countries are currently prohibited because they are considered to be unsustainable.

We are looking carefully at this issue and have previously commissioned research by Professor McDonald. We plan to hold a roundtable discussion with organisations from all sides of the debate in order to gain a better understanding of the issues as well as consider any further scientific advice.