Fur Trade

Having grown up around animals, I have always been passionate about protecting animal welfare.

That’s why I very much appreciate the concerns of everyone who’s contacted me regarding the fur trade. It is absolutely right that the UK leads the way in the highest standards of animal welfare and that the importation of fur products is tightly regulated.

It is important to stress that it is illegal to import furs derived from cats or dogs, or products made from them; in addition the fur and skin of endangered animals or fish cannot be imported without a valid permit. Meanwhile, under European legislation it is prohibited to import furs or fur products from 13 wild animal species originating in countries where they are caught in the wild by leg-hold traps, or trapping methods that do not meet international standards of humane trapping. Strict rules are in also place in the European Union to ensure that animals kept for fur production are kept, trapped and slaughtered humanely.

Once the UK has withdrawn from the EU, however, it will be for the Government to consider future policies, taking into account the outcome of exit negotiations. That's why I'm delighted that Michael Gove, the Environment Secretary, has put animal welfare at the top of his priority list.

Rest assured, I will continue raising all concerns on this issue with Ministers. As an animal lover, I believe we must always lead the world in animal welfare, and I will go on campaigning to ensure that this issue remains at the heart of our post-Brexit agenda.