91997E4138

WRITTEN QUESTION E-4138/97 by David Bowe (PSE) to the Commission (21 January 1998)

Subject: Import of primates from Indonesia

In view of the findings of the recent report on the trade in non-human primates from Indonesia and, in particular, the serious breaches of CITES provisions and the immense animal suffering recorded, is the Commission considering carrying out its own investigation into the trade in primates?

Furthermore, will the Commission consider imposing an embargo on the use of primates originating from Indonesia in experiments in the EU, pending the results of such an investigation?

Joint answer to Written Questions E-4137/97 and E-4138/97 given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission (18 February 1998)

The Commission is aware of the November 1997 report by the British union for the abolition of vivisection (BUAV) on a number of shipments of primates from Indonesia to the United States. As at least one shipment transited through the Community, the Commission reminded the authorities of the Member State concerned of the provisions of Council Regulation (EC) No 338/97 of 9 December 1996 on the protection of species of wild fauna and flora by regulating trade therein ((OJ L 61, 3.3.1997. )) and in particular Article 9(5) thereof.

The Commission further requested the Indonesian Convention on international trade in endangered species (CITES) management authority to provide it with a reaction to the claims in the BUAV report and to indicate its policy with regard to the implementation of International air transport association (IATA) regulations and captive breeding.

The Commission will consider whether measures under Articles 4(6) (c) of Regulation (EC) No 338/97 are necessary in the light of the results of the necessary consultations.