"Without people power we would never have been able to get this through. The ban means that the sale, importation and exportation of products containing dog and cat fur will end in the EU" said Svensson who also welcomed the "widespread support received from MEPs".

"I hope now that this repulsive practice ceases and I see this decision as a step towards additional restrictions in similar trade in hides and fur. It is significant that we achieved this result at first reading in parliament as this will enable the implementation of the ban in all member states by December 2008 at the latest"

The background to the ban was reports about cruel treatment in fur manufacturing and the strong public reaction that followed. Cruel and extremely sickening, the killing methods of many cat and dog slaughter houses involve prolonged suffering by strangulation with animals often being skinned while still alive. The fur is then used in toys, shoes and clothing without any labelling.

GUE/NGL Press
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