THREATENED DISBANDMENT OF THE METROPOLITAN POLICE WILDLIFE CRIME UNIT

Early day motion 268, tabled 30 January 2001 by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 36 members.

That this House is extremely concerned to hear that the Metropolitan Police is considering disbanding its Wildlife Crime Unit; notes that the unit is the only specialized unit dealing with wildlife crime in the UK; also notes the essential work that the Wildlife Crime Unit does in relation to the UK's CITES commitments to expose and prosecute international trade in endangered species such as the Tibetan antelope (shatoosh), elephant ivory, and in particular the illegal trade in rhino horn and bear and tiger parts for use in traditional Chinese medicine; further notes the contributions made by the Wildlife Crime Unit in tackling badger digging and baiting and illegal hare coursing; and therefore calls on the Home Secretary to make clear the concerns of this House to the Metropolitan Police Commissioner.

Signatures by party: Labour 23, Liberal Democrat 9, Conservative 1, Labour/Co-operative 1, Plaid Cymru 1, UUP 1.