EU bans trade in cat and dog fur
A EU-wide ban on the “appalling” trade in cat and dog fur has today been approved by European governments.
The new law, which will apply from December 31, 2008, will prevent the production, marketing, import and export of feline and canine fur.
It comes after a major campaign championed by Heather Mills, who once broke down in tears in Brussels at the screening of a video showing cats and dogs being rounded up and their skins being stripped from them live – to avoid the cost of humane killing.
After the ban was approved by the European Council of Ministers, Gareth Thomas, UK Minister for Trade said: “This is great news as this appalling trade in cat and dog fur products is unacceptable.
“I share the revulsion people feel about this and this is why we have pushed for an EU-wide ban where it will be most effective in stopping this sickening business.”
And Jeff Rooker, Minister for Animal Welfare said: “I am very pleased that we have achieved such a positive result.
“This EU-wide ban on cat and dog fur products is a significant step towards stamping out this disgusting trade once and for all.
“It sets a precedent and is an example to the rest of the world. We sincerely hope other countries will follow.”
The ban was proposed last year by EU commissioner Markos Kyprianou, who said he was acting for ethical reasons and in response to the public outcry over the barbaric treatment of the animals to provide fur for everything from rugs and coats to figurines.
The Humane Society International helped expose the business, revealing evidence of a thriving cat and dog fur trade in many European countries including France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Austria, the Netherlands, Belgium and Denmark.
An estimated two million cats and dogs are being killed each year in China to fuel the trade, which is currently not illegal in the EU.
But campaigners including Ms Mills have demanded an immediate end to the trade.
DNA tests showing that many rugs, coats and figurines on sale in shops in European countries are made from real cat and dog fur, but are usually marketed as being made of fake fur.
While the UK argued for a full ban, very limited exceptions have been allowed under the law for educational purposes and taxidermy.
The British Environment Department said the UK had accepted the minor amendments to ensure a full commercial ban was put in place.
