Bearskins

Mr. Hancock
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent research he has commissioned on whether animals used to provide bearskins are killed humanely; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Ingram
The pelts used to provide bearskins are provided by traders operating under the jurisdiction of the Canadian Authorities. Those pelts that are provided are certified under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Details on the manner in which the bears are killed are a matter for the Canadian Authorities. The UK MOD requirement for fresh bearskins has been reduced through the operation of a refurbishment programme.