MIDDLEWICH’S MP has welcomed plans to ban ivory sales in the UK.

In an effort to help bring an end to the poaching of elephants, Environment Secretary Michael Gove has announced that the government will attempt to remove opportunities for criminals to trade illegally-poached ivory.

The proposals will be subject to a 12 week consultation and covers items of all ages.

Fiona Bruce, MP for Congleton, said: “I welcome the plans announced by the Environment Secretary Michael Gove that the UK will impose a ban on ivory sales.

“This is a campaign which I have long supported and have spoken in Parliament about. The gravity of the need to act on the ivory trade is undeniable."

The number of elephants has declined by almost a third in the last decade and around 20,000 a year are still being slaughtered due to the global demand for ivory.

Musical instruments, items containing a small proportion of ivory, items of significant historic value and sales to and between museums are exempt from the proposals.

Fiona spoke against the ivory trade in a speech to parliament in December 2016.

She said: “The responsibility that Britain must take in tackling the ivory trade cannot be ignored.

“The domestic market means that there is a transition point in the UK for the trading of ivory, with import and re-export occurring.

“Between 2009 and 2014, 40% of seizures by the UK Border Force were of ivory items.

“I am pleased to see the Government’s commitment to doubling their £13 million investment to tackle the illegal ivory trade and the endeavour to train a British military anti-poaching force.

“Those are bold and leading measures to tackle the problem, but more must be done.”

For more information visit gov.uk/government/news/government-sets-out-plans-for-ivory-ban