The UK will go further than any other country to stop the cruel practice of shark finning thanks to new legislation set to ban the import and export of shark fin products. Many species of shark face significant population pressures. Out of over 500 species of shark, 143 are listed as ‘under threat’ under the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Welcoming the announcement, the Shadow Minister for Climate Change - Janet Finch-Saunders MS/AS - said:
“Shark finning is an indescribably cruel act which causes thousands of sharks to die unnecessary deaths and contributes to the issue of overfishing. Whilst the practice is rightly banned in UK waters, this new legislation will cement our place as a pioneer of marine conservation by banning the import of detached shark fins and shark fin products.
“Our departure from the EU has provided us with an opportunity to do things better when it comes to environmental protections. In the year of COP26, when the UK Government will show bold leadership to help drive forward clean and green recoveries around the globe, this latest announcement sets out a clear precedent of intent and a path for positive forward progress.
“As conservationists make clear, the variety of sharks in our marine areas act as a key indicator for ocean health with these animals playing a vital role in our ecosystems by helping to maintain healthy levels of fish in the food chain. As custodians of our land and waters, we must come to draw a line when such industries force species to the brink of extinction.”
The announcement is part of the UK Government’s plan to eradicate cruel practices and improve standards both domestically and overseas as set out in our Action Plan for Animal Welfare.
