(21/06/2007) The fur trade does not oppose EU Ban on Cat and Dog Fur

The fur trade welcomes the principle, outlined in the ban on domestic cat and dog fur by the EU, to protect the free movement of the legitimate fur trade between Member States. We support the EU’s objective to provide consumer reassurance while at the same time ensuring that the legitimate fur trade is not affected.

The EU Members of the International Fur Trade Federation (IFTF) have been operating a voluntary ban on trade in domestic cat and dog skin since 2002. The IFTF promotes strict codes of practice that meet or exceed established and accepted animal welfare standards for wild and farmed fur, and strongly condemns cruelty to animals.

IFTF Chairman Andreas Lenhart comments: “The IFTF and its Members do not oppose the ban on domestic cat and dog fur. We hope it will be positive for the legitimate fur trade and complement the voluntary ban on cat and dog furs we have been operating for the last 5 years. The IFTF would have preferred to see the EU introduce species labelling laws, as we believe these would offer greater transparency to consumers.” The IFTF has pioneered a labelling scheme in 2003, which has been welcomed by consumers.

END - See below for notes to editors:

NOTES TO EDITORS

The British Fur Trade Association is a member of the IFTF

The EU ban on Cat and Dog fur is due to be voted on by the European Parliament on 19th June 2007. It will then be referred to the Council of Ministers for adoption later this month.

International Fur Trade Federation is a federation of 38 national fur trade associations and organisations from 31 countries. Through its work and the activities of its members, the IFTF seeks to protect fur trade interests and to promote innovation, high standards and a positive, factual image of the fur industry internationally.

The International Fur Trade Federation (IFTF) and its member associations around the world promote the strict codes of practice that meet or exceed established and accepted animal welfare standards for wild and farmed fur. As an industry, we deplore and work against the mistreatment of all animals.

Contact:

Rebecca Hildreth
International Public Affairs Director
International Fur Trade Federation: www.IFTF.com
PO Box 495, KT13 8WD
Tel: +44 (0) 1932 850020
Fax +44 (0) 1932 850033

or

BFTA Contact:
e-mail: press@britishfur.co.uk

19 June 2007