Source: EURLEX
Language: en
Format: md

[**Avis juridique important**](../../../editorial/legal_notice.htm)

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# 91997E1420

**WRITTEN QUESTION No. 1420/97 by Anita POLLACK to the Commission. Wild-caught primates** 
  
*Official Journal C 373 , 09/12/1997 P. 0125*

  

WRITTEN QUESTION E-1420/97 by Anita Pollack (PSE) to the Commission (23 April 1997)

Subject: Wild-caught primates

In its reply to my Question H-0135/97 ((Debates of the European Parliament (March 1997). )), the Commission explained once agin the present situation, but made no effort to answer the main point of my question which was to ask that the Commission place the burden of proof on importers of wild-caught primates to show that they cannot use captive-bred animals. Will it now attempt please, to answer this point?

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission (21 May 1997)

In its answer to the Oral Question No H-135/97 by Mrs Pollack during question time at Parliament's March 1997 part-session ((Debates of the Parliament (March 1997). )) the Commission pointed out that the number of primates needed for bio-medical research cannot be provided at present by the European breeding centres. For that reason the import of primates from third countries is necessary in order to satisfy the needs of European research.

Articles 19(4) and 21 of Directive 86/609/EEC ((OJ L 358, 18.12.1986. )) concerning the protection of laboratory animals provide for the possibility of special exemption for the use of non purpose-bred animals. The decision for this exemption must be taken under arrangements determined by the authority of the Member State concerned.

The Directive does not contain provisions allowing the Commission to control import of primates nor to request proof that no captive bred animals could be used. This lies within the competence of the authorities of the Member States.

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