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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what the Government's policy is on the importation of (a) foie gras, (b) fur and (c) other products the production of which is banned in the UK on grounds of cruelty; and if he will make a statement.

We have some of the highest welfare standards in the world, and that is both a source of pride and a clear reflection of UK attitudes towards animals.

The Government has made clear that the production of foie gras from ducks or geese who have been force fed raises serious welfare concerns. The production of foie gras by force feeding is already banned in the UK, as it is incompatible with our domestic welfare standards.

Fur farming has been banned in England and Wales since 2000 and since 2002 in Scotland and Northern Ireland. There are restrictions on some skin and fur products which may never be legally imported into the UK. These include fur and products from cats and dogs, and seal skins and products from commercial hunts.

The Government is considering any further steps it could take in relation to foie gras, fur, and other such products now that the Transition Period has ended.