CELEX: 52000PC0146
Language: en
Date: 2000-03-17
Title: Proposal for a Council Decision on the Community position to be adopted on certain proposals submitted to the 11th meeting of the Conference of the parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of wild fauna and flora (CITES) Gigiri, Kenya, 10 - 20 April 2000

Avis juridique important

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52000PC0146

Proposal for a Council Decision on the Community position to be adopted on certain proposals submitted to the 11th meeting of the Conference of the parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of wild fauna and flora (CITES) Gigiri, Kenya, 10 - 20 April 2000  /* COM/2000/0146 final - ACC 2000/0063 */  

Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the Community position to be adopted on certain proposals submitted to the 11th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Gigiri, Kenya, 10 - 20 April 2000(presented by the Commission)EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM1. The 11th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to CITES will be held in Gigiri, Kenya, from 10 - 20 April 2000.2. The text of the Convention was changed in 1983 to allow Regional Economic Integration Organisations such as the EC to become a Party. However, an insufficient number of Parties have ratified this change in order for it to come into effect. Diplomatic efforts continue to achieve the necessary ratifications but this has proved a slow process and at best it might be hoped that the Community can become a Party in time for the 12th Conference of the Parties in 2002.3. However, in view of the effects of decisions taken by the Conference of the Parties on the implementation of the Council Regulation (EC) No 338/97 of 9 December 1996 on the protection of species of wild fauna and flora by regulating trade therein [1], it is necessary, on the basis of Article 133 of the Treaty, to adopt a Community position on proposals submitted to it.[1] OJ L61 of 03.03.1997, p.14. On 14 January the Commission services held an informal meeting with experts from the Member States to discuss the issues to be debated at the Conference of the Parties.5. In the case of agenda items 19, 20, 30, 31, 33, 37, 40, 46, 48, 53, 54, 56, and 57 some documents for the Conference are not yet available and in these cases it is not possible to propose a Community position at the present time. The Commission therefore proposes that the position on these issues be established during the meeting on the basis of further proposals from the Commission.6. The business of the Conference falls into three parts: strategic and administrative matters, interpretation and implementation of the Convention and proposals to amend the appendices. As the Community is not a Party to the Convention the first does not generally impact on Council Regulation 338/97. The second part represents the evolution of the Convention and is of considerable technical importance but is not likely to have a very high public profile. By contrast the amendments to the appendices (levels of protection afforded to different species) are certain to prove controversial.7. Four issues are likely to dominate the discussions surrounding the amendment of the appendices: whales, African elephants, sea turtles and sharks. On whales, the Community's position should be unambiguous: no return to commercial whaling until the International Whaling Commission deems that the appropriate management controls are in place. Concerning African elephants, following the experimental re-opening of international trade that took place last year, African states have put forward conflicting proposals to expand or to halt international trade. The Community should reject all these proposals whilst established monitoring mechanisms deliver an assessment of the conservation impact of the trade that has already been sanctioned. Cuba is repeating previous attempts to restart international trade in sea turtle products. However, doubts remain about the sustainability of any long-term harvesting of these animals. Three proposals for tighter regulation of international trade in various shark species merit attention or support. However care will need to be taken to ensure that they do not cut across actions taken in other fora such as FAO.2000/0063 (ACC)Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION on the Community position to be adopted on certain proposals submitted to the 11th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Gigiri, Kenya, 10 - 20 April 2000THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community, and in particular Article 133 thereof,Having regard to the proposal from the Commission,Whereas:(1) The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora is implemented in the Community by Council Regulation (EC) No 338/97 of 9 December 1996 [2].[2] OJ L61 of 03.03.1997, p.1(2) Proposals for Resolutions of the Conference of the Parties and amendments to the Appendices of the Convention will, in most cases, affect the Community legislation concerned.(3) In such circumstances where Community rules have been promulgated for the attainment of the objectives of the Treaty, the Member States cannot outside the framework of the Community institutions assume obligations which might affect those rules or alter their scope.(4) The Community has not yet been able to become a contracting party to the Convention.(5) In such circumstances the Community position should be represented by the Member States acting jointly in the Community interest and within the framework of a common position decided by the Council.HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS:Article 1The position of the Community, to be represented by the Member States, acting jointly in the Community interest, at the 11th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, shall be in accordance with the positions contained in the Annex to this Decision.Article 2Where the position referred to in Article 1 is likely to be affected by new scientific or technical information presented before or during the meeting of the Conference of the Parties or where proposals are made in matters not yet the subject of a Community position, a position shall be established on the proposal concerned before the Conference of the Parties is called to vote on it.Done at Brussels, For the Council The PresidentAnnex to Council Decision on the Community position to be adopted on certain proposals submitted to the 11th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. Gigiri, Kenya 10-20 April 2000Strategic and administrative matters1. Rules of Procedure       Doc. 11.1Summary: Amongst the changes to the CoP Rules of Procedure agreed by the Standing Committee for adoption at the CoP is a new Rule 11.2 which would permit Parties that are members of a regional economic integration organisation to be seated together if they so wish.Comments: If the Member States were able to sit together at the Conference, this would greatly facilitate co-ordination, particularly when proposals to be voted upon are subject to last minute changes which could not be accounted for during pre-session co-ordination meetings. The Presidency would have the possibility to invite the Commission to join them (Rule 11.4)Conclusion: The Community shall actively support the proposed rule change related to seating arrangements for members of regional economic integration organisations and if it is agreed by the Plenary, request to be seated together for the remainder of CoP11.2. Election of Chairman and Vice-Chairmen of the meeting and of Chairmen of Committees I and II and of the Budget Committee3. Adoption of the Agenda      Doc. 11.34. Adoption of the Working Programmes    Doc. 11.45. Establishment of the Credentials Committee6. Report of the Credentials Committee7. Admission of observers      Doc. 11.78. Matters related to the Standing Committee1. Report of the Chairman      Doc. 11.82. Election of new regional and alternate regional membersSummary:Comments: The current representation for the European Region is as follows:i)   Italy - term of office expires at the close of CoP12 (alternate Czech Republic)ii)  Russian Federation - term of office expires at the close of CoP12 (alternate Bulgaria)iii) United Kingdom - term of office expires at the close of CoP11 (alternate France)Already declared candidates for the vacant posts are:Member: France and Greece.Alternate: Portugal.Conclusion: The Community shall support the candidature of Member States and endeavour to avoid a situation in which Member States are competing between each other for places on the Standing Committee.9. Reports of the Secretariat1. Annual report of the Secretariat     Doc. 11.9.12. Staffing of the Secretariat     Doc. 11.9.210. Financing and budgeting of the Secretariat and of meetings of the Conference of the Parties1. Financial report for 1997, 1998 and 1999   Doc. 11.10.12. Estimated expenditures for 2000     Doc. 11.10.23. Budget for 2001-2002 and Medium-term Plan for 2001-2005 Doc. 11.10.34. External funding       Doc. 11.10.411. Committee reports and recommendations1. Animals Committeea) Report of the Chairman      Doc. 11.11.1b) Election of new regional and alternate regional membersSummary:Comments: The current representation for the European Region is as follows:i)  Dr Marinus HOOGMOED (NL) (alternate Dr Tom TEW - UK)ii) Dr Katalin RODICS (HU) (alternate Dr Olof BISTROM - FI)Already declared candidates are:Members: Dr Marinus HOOGMOED (NL), Dr Katalin RODICS (HU) and Dr Thomas ALTHAUS (CH)Alternates: None yet declared.Conclusion: The Community shall support the candidature of experts from Member States and endeavour to avoid a situation in which individuals from Member States are competing between each other for places on the Animals Committee.2. Plants Committeea) Report of the Chairman      Doc. 11.11.2b) Election of new regional and alternate regional membersSummary:Comments: The current representation for the European Region is as follows:i)  Dr Margarita CLEMENTE (ES) (alternate Dr Dieter SUPTHUT - CH)ii) Dr Jan de KONING (NL) (alternate Dr Hanna WERBLAN-JAKUBIEC - PL)Already declared candidates are:Members: Dr Margarita CLEMENTE (ES) and Dr Jan de KONING (NL)Alternates: Dr Dieter SUPTHUT (CH) and Dr Hanna WERBLAN-JAKUBIEC (PL)Conclusion: The Community shall support the candidature of experts from Member States and endeavour to avoid a situation in which individuals from Member States are competing between each other for places on the Plants Committee.3. Identification Manual Committee    Doc. 11.11.34. Nomenclature Committeea) Report of the Chairmen      Doc. 11.11.4.1b) Recommendations of the Committee    Doc. 11.11.4.212. Evolution of the Convention1. Action plan to improve the effectiveness of the Convention  Doc. 11.12.12. Strategic plan for the Convention    Doc. 11.12.23. Co-operation and synergy with the Convention on Biological Diversity and other biodiversity-related conventions    Doc. 11.12.34. Improvement of the effectiveness of the Convention: financing conservation of species of wild fauna and flora     Doc. 11.12.413. Terms of reference of permanent committees   Doc. 11.1314. Synergy with the United Nations Food and Agriculture  Organization         Doc. 11.1415. International Whaling Commission1. Relationship with the International Whaling Commission  Doc. 11.15.12. Reaffirmation of the synergy between CITES and the International Whaling Commission        Doc. 11.15.2Summary: Two "rival" draft Resolutions are presented. Doc 11.15.1 essentially reconfirms the applicability of Resolution Conf. 9.24 and Doc 11.15.2 essentially reconfirms the existence of Resolution Conf. 2.9 and the consultation elements of Resolution Conf. 9.24.Comments: There is a need for a Community position on this issue because of its impact on the listing of cetacean species in the CITES appendices. Disputes over the efficacy or otherwise of the IWC should not be resolved in the CITES forum. It is curious that Doc. 11.15.1 does not propose repealing Resolution Conf. 2.9, indicating that the strategy of pro-whaling Parties may be to obtain a down-listing with zero quota - a result not incompatible with the retention of Resolution Conf. 2.9. Neither draft resolution appears to advance debate on this matter, both being somewhat self-evident. Resolution Conf. 2.9 was re-endorsed at CoP10 and there have been no substantial changes in circumstances since then.Conclusion: The Community shall seek the withdrawal of both draft Resolutions.In the event that they are put to the vote, the Community shall vote against Doc 11.51.1 and in favour of Doc. 11.51.216. Recognition of the important contribution made by observers to the CITES process at meetings of the Conference of the Parties  Doc. 11.16Interpretation and implementation of the Convention17. Consolidation of valid Resolutions     Doc. 11.17Summary: Three further elements (cetaceans, enforcement and scientific exchanges) in the exercise to consolidate past resolutions. This time two versions are presented, one a simple lumping together of all previous text on the subject, the second incorporating minor representation by the CITES Secretariat.Comments: Although at least one of the subject matters under review is a sensitive one, there is no reason to break with the previous practise of permitting the Secretariat to make minor presentational changes in consolidating past resolutions on one subject. Such an approach aids clarity and therefore makes proper implementation of these Resolutions more likely. The fact that they are not binding on Parties makes it even more sensible to seek this clearer option which has proved successful in the past.Conclusion: The Community shall follow the Secretariat's proposal and support adoption of Annexes 1B, 2B and 3B of Doc 11.17.18. Interpretation and implementation of Article III, paragraph 5, Article IV, paragraphs 6 and 7 and Article XIV, paragraphs 4, 5 and 6, relating to introduction from the sea      Doc. 11.18Summary: Proposes a draft resolution to clarify the practical application of the Convention in relation to specimens introduced from the sea.Comments: With the increasing probability of marine species in trade being included in the appendices of CITES, such clarification is overdue. The measures proposed, relating to definitions, certification and trade reporting, cover all the main areas of potential confusion and the solutions proposed offer a sound basis for discussion. The draft will however need amendment to clarify some technical points. Under Regulation 338/97 we will maintain the need for import permits rather than certificates of introduction from the sea in the EU.Conclusion: The Community shall support this initiative and actively contribute to the drafting of a Resolution.19. Report on national reports required under Article VIII, paragraph 7 (a), of the Convention        Doc. 11.1920. Enforcement1. Review of alleged infractions and other problems of implementation of the Convention        Doc. 11.20.12. Implementation of Resolutions     Doc. 11.20.2Summary: Decision10.120 requested the Secretariat to list the Conf. Resolutions still in effect and assess their implementation. Hardly any Parties reported on which Resolutions they implement. The Secretariat suggests instead to try and identify which Resolutions pose implementation problems for Parties.Comments: The EU's existing table of Resolutions and their implementation in the Community has been cited by the Secretariat as an example of what is needed. The Commission will update this table after CoP11.Conclusion: The Community shall support the alternative tack proposed by the Secretariat and agree to provide relevant information to the Secretariat in due course.21. National laws for implementation of the Convention1. National legislation project     Doc. 11.21.1Summary: The project to assess the suitability of Parties' national legislation to implement CITES began in 1992. The legislation of most Parties has now been reviewed although there is a need for ongoing revision. Only 25% of Parties have adequate legislation. The Secretariat proposes a new Decision on this subject, which presents a more passive approach than previously. This will involve recording any new legislation reported by Parties and providing advice to Parties requesting it, with priority for those Parties already identified as having the weakest national implementation measures. This strategy has been approved at the 42nd meeting of the Standing Committee.Comments: The existence of adequate legislation to implement the Convention is a fundamental necessity if CITES is to achieve its objectives. Given the fact that 75% of the Parties do not have satisfactory legislation, it is clear that much more remains to be done. The co-operative stance proposed by the Secretariat, stressing the assistance on offer to Parties whose national implementation legislation is inadequate is helpfulConclusion: The Community shall support the Secretariat's recommended Decision, but emphasise the need for sanctions in cases where weak national legislation badly compromises implementation of the Convention and offers of assistance are not taken up - see Doc11.21.2.2. Measures to be taken with regard to Parties without adequate legislation          Doc. 11.21.2Summary:  Reports on measures taken in relation to the Parties identified at Cop10 as having the most serious deficiencies in their national implementing legislation. Significant improvements occurred in almost all cases. The Secretariat proposes further action to address outstanding problems in other Parties. Fiji, Turkey, Viet Nam and Yemen face a trade suspension if they do not adopt adequate legislation by 31 October 2001. Other Parties whose legislation has been noted as inadequate are required to give a report to the Secretariat who will recommend necessary action at CoP12.Comments: The Secretariat and the Standing Committee should be congratulated on obtaining significant legislative improvements under this initiative in countries such as Guyana, Senegal and Egypt which are engaging in wildlife trade on a significant scale. It is important to pursue this initiative further as the existence of adequate legislation to implement the Convention is a fundamental necessity if CITES is to achieve its objectives. It should be clarified exactly which Parties are referred to in paragraph 3 a) of the draft decision.Conclusion: The Community shall support the draft Decision proposed by the Secretariat and confirm its willingness apply any sanctions recommended by the Standing Committee.22. Reporting of seizures      Doc. 11.22Summary: Draft Resolution proposing closer co-operation between Parties involved in the event of seizures of specimens and arrest or prosecution of a foreign national.Comments: Enforcement co-operation is of great importance to the effective implementation of CITES. It is particularly important to be able to "back-track" following the identification of an infraction to see if others involved in the activity can be apprehended and to understand better how the chain of illegal transactions was conducted. However, for legal or investigatory reasons it may be best not to disclose information to others immediately in certain cases and the current language of the draft reflects this. The views of INTERPOL and WCO, which both have their own networks for information exchange, should be sought.Conclusion: The Community shall support the principle of the draft Resolution and contribute to drafting a final text.23. Persistent offenders       Doc. 11.23Summary: Recommends that the CITES Secretariat compile and maintain a blacklist of persistent offenders against CITES provisions and that such persons be denied CITES permits whilst on the list.Comments: Although the frustration of the drafters is understandable, there are a number of flaws in the proposal. The list serves no purpose unless it results in some action and the action proposed (denial of permits) may well prove legally impossible to implement especially where the applicant has committed no crime in the country of application and the application itself is perfectly legal. It is also to be anticipated that persistent offenders will find it relatively easy to hide behind aliases and front firms to avoid identification. Attempts to apply similar lists in other fora have not been successful.Conclusion: The Community shall not support the draft Resolution.24. Use of annotations in the appendices    Doc. 11.24Summary: Decision 10.70 called for a clarification of the use of annotations in the appendices. The resulting draft Resolution divides annotations into reference (information purposes only) and substantive (part of a listing) annotations, with significant guidance provided on the use and changing of the latter.Comments: The use of annotations to the appendices, for a variety of purposes, has got out of hand over time. Although their use increases flexibility, they also make the Convention more complicated to implement. The draft presents a useful clarification although it is unlikely to stem the tide of increasingly complex annotations.Conclusion: The Community shall support the proposal and contribute to the drafting of a final text.25. Procedure for the review of criteria for amendment of Appendices I and II          Doc. 11.25Summary: The Resolution (Conf. 9.24) establishing the current listing criteria foresaw their review prior to CoP12. This document from the Chairs of Animals and Plants Committees presents terms of reference and a timetable for this review. It provides for the establishment of a Criteria Working Group drawn up on a regional basis from the members of the Animals and Plants Committees and assisted by four co-opted members. This Group report will be discussed extensively with the Parties and the Animals/Plants Committees before being endorsed by the Standing Committee for presentation to CoP12. Using examples researched by the Animals and Plants Committees the Group will assess the scientific validity and applicability of the existing criteria and the guidance that accompanies them.Comments: Whilst inevitably a little subjective, the objectives of the review seem broadly satisfactory. The timetable however looks rather ambitious particularly that part scheduled for the year 2000. It will be important to co-opt qualified individuals from interested and affected organisations such as ITTO and FAO to avoid "parallel" reviews by these organisations which would be unhelpful.Conclusion: The Community shall support the proposed Terms of Reference in principle and play an active part in their finalisation.26. Definition of the term "appropriate and acceptable destinations"   Doc. 11.26Summary: An attempt to elaborate on a rather clumsy term used in listing annotations related to live specimens. The text goes into considerable detail about restrictions upon and consultations over exports under these terms.Comments: The draft appears over prescriptive for an issue of relatively minor conservation significance. In addition several aspects would appear to be in excess of the requirements of the Convention (e.g. ban on re-exports). An alternative approach is to be found in amendment proposal 11.25, which is much simpler and should be sufficient to clarify the issue although as currently proposed it would only apply to elephants.Conclusion: The Community shall support the draft Resolution only if it is amended along the lines of the text found in amendment proposal 11.25, which has the same objective (although at present limited to elephants).27. Recognition of risks and benefits of trade in wildlife  Doc. 11.27Summary: Seeks to rewrite Resolution Conf. 8.3 in terms that stress the difficulties of achieving sustainability and urges the consideration of alternatives to commercial trade in wildlife (presumably refers tourism).Comments: The substantive part of the draft Resolution adds little to the operative part on Resolution Conf. 8.3 and the remainder consists largely of truisms. There would appear to be no reason why commercial trade and tourism cannot co-exist, indeed they are combined in the case of sport-hunting. Given that the principle of sustainable use (for commercial purposes or otherwise) is firmly enshrined in many international instruments, the attention of CITES should be focussed on delivering its objectives rather than listing the difficulties in its implementation.Conclusion: The Community shall not support the draft Resolution.28. Quotas for species in Appendix I1. Leopard        Doc. 11.28.1Summary:  Doc. 11.28.1 shows that firstly trade in leopard skins is being carried out at levels considerably less than approved as sustainable by the Conference of the Parties but secondly that a number of the Parties that were granted these quotas have not been fulfilling the special reporting requirements specified in Resolution Conf. Res. 10.14Comments: Although it might seems unwise to "reward" Parties who fail to fulfil reporting obligations placed upon them by the Conference of the Parties, these obligations do seem burdensome if they serve no practical purpose.Conclusion: The Community shall support efforts to make the reporting requirements for Parties allocated leopard quotas more standardised and appropriate to conservation and control needs.2. Markhor        Doc. 11.28.2Summary: Under the quota system approved by CoP10, no markhor were hunted in Pakistan in 1997 and 3 were hunted in 1998. The specimens were tagged in accordance with Conf 10.15. Pakistan provided the required information on the status of the species in 1997 but no new information in 1998. The Secretariat suggests that the provision of such information annually may be too onerous and that a different interval could be agreed.Comments: No major problems have been encountered in the use of the export quota for hunting trophies approved for this species in Pakistan. A report on the status of the species in 1997 showed no cause for concern. The requirement to report annually on the status of the species does indeed appear rather onerous for a species found in such a remote area, there would seem no conservation reason to object to a longer timeframe for reporting.Conclusion: The Community shall note the use of this quota and agree to suitable changes in the reporting timescale in Conf 10.15.29. Trade in bear specimens      Doc. 11.29Summary: A report from the Secretariat about trade in bears and bear parts as required by Decisions 10.44 and 10.65 based largely on contributions from the Parties. However, this situation is still a cause for concern and the Secretariat proposed to draw up another report on the subject, with contribution from Parties by 31.07.01.Comments: This is a rather upbeat report considering past concerns about trade in bear parts. Some clarification of the Community's stricter measures will be needed to respond to criticisms in Para 3 about apparent confusion over whether Appendix II bear hunting trophies can be considered personal effects or not. Although not specifically named, this clearly refers to EU stricter domestic measures.Conclusion: The Community shall welcome the report and support the move for a further review before CoP12.30. Conservation of and trade in tigers1. Implementation of Resolution Conf. 9.13 (Rev.)  Doc. 11.30.12. Implementation of Decision 10.66    Doc. 11.30.231. Conservation of and trade in elephants1. Experimental trade in raw ivory of populations in Appendix IIDoc. 11.31.12. Monitoring of illegal trade and illegal killing   Doc. 11.31.23. Revision of Resolution Conf. 10.10    Doc. 11.31.3Summary: Proposes changes to Resolution Conf. 10.10 particularly in respect of arrangements for monitoring of illegal elephant killing (replacement of MIKE and ETIS), non-commercial buy-outs of official ivory stocks (removal of need for Conservation Trust Funds) and trade in live animals.Comments: Although MIKE has not yet attracted the funding necessary to begin in earnest, it forms an important element in assessing the impact of trade in African elephant products. The alternative approach in Doc 11.31.3 is rather loose; it does not provide sufficient opportunity for the Secretariat to verify indications of increased poaching and proposes over-precipitous action in such an eventuality. There is also no need to alter the ETIS programme at present; it is generating useful information. Given the lack of progress on Decision 10.2, changes in the arrangements for non-commercial buyouts of ivory may be warranted but their success cannot be guaranteed. The Community should be wary of contributing in detail to these mechanisms unless there is a clear intention of contributing financially afterwards. The proposals relating to Secretariat fund raising for in-situ elephant conservation and restrictions on the export of live specimens would appear to be out of the scope of CITES. Concerning the proposed changes in relation to trade in live specimens, these would appear to be excessive in relation to the conservation needs of the African elephant and impractical when dealing with inter-zoo movements.Conclusion: The Community shall oppose the revision Resolution Conf. 10.10 as proposed.4. Non-commercial disposal of ivory stockpiles   Doc. 11.31.4Summary: This documents merely repeats the elements of Doc 11.31.3 which concern Decision 10.2 - non-commercial buy-outs of official ivory stocks. It proposes that, subject to marking etc, government ivory stocks may be "sold" at any time provided that revenues are used for elephant conservation.Comments: Given the lack of progress on Decision 10.2, changes in the arrangements for non-commercial buyouts of ivory may be warranted but their success cannot be guaranteed. The proponents suggest that it is the establishment of Conservation Trust Funds that has prevented non-commercial buy-outs becoming a reality. In fact the reasons are probably more fundamental than this. Decision 10.2 envisaged only the sale of stocks registered in the initial audit in 1997. The "sale" of governmental stockpiles at any time does risk the acquisition of further ivory for this purpose but if it can be guaranteed that funds generated will be used for elephant conservation this might not present any conservation problems. The Community should be wary of contributing in detail to these mechanisms unless there is a clear intention of contributing financially afterwards. We have already been accused of bad-faith in the past on this point.Conclusion: The Community shall only support the principle of this draft and contribute to its elaboration if there is a clear intention to contribute financially afterwards.32. Conservation of and trade in rhinoceroses    Doc. 11.32Summary: A report by the Secretariat on the rhino situation and in particular Resolution Conf. 9.14 and Decision 10.45. After investigation, the proposal to develop new standardised indicators to measure changes in levels of illegal hunting of rhinos appeared rather ill-judged. The Standing Committee refused to sanction the expenditure required and preferred to look for synergy with existing monitoring system. The Secretariat considers that the whole of Resolution Conf. 9.14 should be repealed or radically revised.Comments: Although the problem of illegal trade in rhino horn has certainly not been resolved, it does seem that the situation has stabilised somewhat. Resolution Conf. 9.14 was drafted at a time when fears for the future of rhinos were at their peak. Whatever revision might been agreed, needs the support of the range states.Conclusion: The Community shall support the repeal or substantial revision of Resolution Conf. 9.14.33. Exports of vicuña wool and cloth     Doc. 11.3334. Conservation of and control of trade in Tibetan antelope Doc. 11.34Summary: A draft Resolution originating from an International Workshop on the species (Oct 1999). It largely calls for attention to be focussed on illegal trade in this species and particularly in woollen (shahtoosh) shawls.Comments: Several Member States were involved in the workshop that drew up this draft Resolution. The EU is a major consumer. Although the preamble congratulates several Member States on enforcement action taken, further initiative should be developed, perhaps in the forum of the EU Enforcement Group. The proposals relating to privately owned shahtoosh garments might not be enforceable in practice.Conclusion: The Community shall support the draft Resolution with minor amendments.35. Trade in freshwater turtles and tortoises to and in South-east Asia Doc. 11.35Summary: A discussion paper that highlights the alarming unsustainable use of SE Asian chelonians. It proposes that range states and importers undertake a number of activities to address this problem, culminating in a technical workshop which will report to the Animals Committee.Comments: Although most of the species concerned are not listed on CITES, there are precedents for such an approach (cf. Resolution Conf. 9.15 on edible-nest swiftlets). There seems no reason why this should not be developed into a Resolution, although there will need to be some confidence that the necessary funds can be located outside the CITES Trust Fund. Enthusiastic support from SE Asian countries will be essential if this exercise is to be a success. The potential role of the Convention on Biological Diversity on issues like this could be usefully stressed here.Conclusion: The Community shall support the preparation of a Resolution on the basis of this discussion paper.36. Trade in seahorses and other members of the family Syngnathidae  Doc. 11.36Summary: This is a similar discussion paper to Doc 10.35, although the recommendations are aimed more widely at different actors (CITES Parties, hobby industry, traditional medicine industry, scientists).Comments: Although the conservation problems are perhaps less acute than with SE Asian chelonians, there are doubts over the sustainability of current use - hence the listing on Annex D of Regulation 338/97. The potential role of the Convention on Biological Diversity on issues like this could be usefully stressed here.Conclusion: The Community shall support the preparation of a Resolution on the basis of this discussion paper.37. Identification and reporting requirements for trade in specimens of hard coral         Doc. 11.3738. Timber species1. Report from the Secretariat     Doc. 11.38.1Summary: This report deals with the 15 Decisions adopted at CoP10 concerning Timber species. Many of the objectives have been discharged or are now redundant and it is recommended that the relevant Decision should be repealed. For others concerning the Timber Working Group, review of listed timber species, use of silvicultural techniques and trade reporting efficacy it is proposed that they are rolled forward to CoP12.Comments: Progress has been made on identification of timber products, thanks to the efforts of Spain but on other points, previous Decisions appear to have been rather superfluous or have been given low priority and have been deferred.Conclusion: The Community shall broadly support the proposals of the Secretariat concerning previous Decisions on timber species and reschedule and refocus deferred matters where appropriate.2. Progress in the conservation of Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany)          Doc. 11.38.2Summary: Doc. 11.38.2 is a report on a workshop convened following the unsuccessful attempt to list Swietenia macrophylla in Appendix II at CoP10. The workshop reaffirmed the commitment of those countries that have listed the species in Appendix III to apply the necessary controls and of all range states present to co-operate in efforts to ensure sustainable harvesting of the species.Comments: No particular action is called for by Doc 11.38.2Conclusion: The Community shall note the contents of Doc 11.38.239. Standard nomenclature      Doc. 11.39Summary: This document from the Nomenclature Committee revises Resolution Conf. 10.22 and updates the list of standard nomenclatural references for species included or proposed for inclusion in the appendices.Comments: The establishment of standard nomenclatural references is a useful practical tool in the application of CITES. The incremental process of identifying such references should be supported. The inclusion in point d) of the operative part of the draft, of a reference for the distribution of tortoises and turtles is a new departure. It would appear to be outside of scope of the Resolution and outside the terms of reference of the Nomenclature Committee. In the expectation that the listing proposal for the genus Mantella will be successful, the question of a nomenclatural reference for this genus should be addressed.Conclusion:  The Community shall support the draft Resolution with the exception of the last reference in point d) and shall suggest a standard reference for the genus Mantella.40. Assistance to Scientific Authorities for making non-detriment findings        Doc. 11.4041. Significant trade in Appendix-II species1. Implementation of Resolution Conf. 8.9    Doc. 11.41.1Summary: An information paper presented by the Secretariat summarising action taken on particular animal species in the course of the Significant Trade process (1992-1999).Comments: Quite a clear summary of a complicated process. Should be read in conjunction with Doc. Inf. 11.2Conclusion: The Community shall note the contents of this information paper2. Revision of Resolution Conf. 8.9     Doc. 11.41.2Summary: Resolution Conf. 8.9 launched the Significant Trade process for fauna species. The present draft proposes minor changes to the approach and more importantly extends its provisions to plants.Comments: Modelled on the EU approach in the previous wildlife trade Regulation 3626/82, Resolution Conf. 8.9 has proved particularly successful at reducing unsustainable use of Appendix II species. So successful that in recent years the Animals Committee has had some difficulty in identifying problem situations to examine. However its limitation to animals was a drawback. The present draft incorporates language to allow plant taxa to be evaluated using one unified system, this is not easy given the differences in available information between the two Kingdoms. Given the close linkage between Community policy and the Significant Trade process, it will be important for the Community to take an active part in the final drafting of this Resolution. The objective being to ensure that the Community's stricter measures can be accommodated within the CITES framework.Conclusion: The Community shall support the draft Resolution and play an active part in its final drafting.42. Trade in specimens of species transferred to Appendix II subject to annual export quotas        Doc. 11.42Summary: Reports on the two populations of crocodile species that fall into the category indicated in the document title.Comments: The record keeping of Tanzania concerning export of Crocodilus niloticus skins and trophies leaves something to be desired as can be seen from the Secretariat's report.Conclusion: The Community shall note the report.43. Amendment of Resolution Conf. 5.10 on the definition of "primarily commercial purposes"        Doc. 11.43Summary: This draft amendment to Resolution 5.10 proposes relatively minor changes to the definition of primarily commercial purposes. It is most substantive in giving examples of application in cases of field conservation programmes but also proposes that importation for the production of offspring for sale shall be considered as a primarily commercial.Comments: The drafters confuse conservation benefit with commercial purposes. Concerning point 4, it is probably true that the Convention is rather outmoded in prohibiting transactions which although beneficial to the conservation of the species are also primarily commercial but this is the way that the Treaty is drafted. The other substantive change - new para f) - would appear to be unnecessary because even where specimens are transferred to private conservancies, the primary purpose of import would almost certainly be non- commercial. If it is commercial, then one could envisage many other circumstances (private hobby breeder/propagators etc) in which a case could be made that the conservation benefits override the commercial aspects. This is a slippery slope. It is true that Resolution Conf. 5.10 provides guidelines rather than a definition, this is a delicate issue. However these guidelines have stood the test of time rather well and it would be unwise to unravel themConclusion: The Community shall oppose the proposed amendments to Resolution Conf. 5.1044. Bushmeat as a trade and wildlife management issue  Doc. 11.44Summary: The apparent increase and commercialisation of the bushmeat trade particularly in Africa has been highlighted in recent years. As this discussion document shows, solutions are to be found largely outside the scope of CITES. The document proposes the establishment of a working group to develop a programme of action on this subject.Comments: The Committee already agreed the desirability of discussing this issue at CoP11 on Trade in Wild Fauna and Flora. There is an international trade dimension and CITES can be used as a catalyst for action. It will be important to seek support from those Parties within whose territory bushmeat trade is widespread. The potential role of the Convention on Biological Diversity on issues like this could be usefully stressed hereConclusion: The Community shall support the involvement of CITES in this issue and the establishment of an inter-sessional working group on the subject.45. Amendment of Resolution Conf. 9.61. Concerning diagnostic samples, samples for identification, research and taxonomic purposes and cell cultures and serum for biomedical researchDoc. 11.45.1Summary: Proposes considering DNA samples, cell cultures and serum as not readily recognisable in CITES terms.Comments: This proposal has been widely discussed in the Committee on Trade in Wild Fauna and Flora. Whilst the Community should press for all parts to be adopted a fall-back may be to delete those items in the second bullet point as they are not clearly needed for the conservation benefit of the species. It is worth pointing out that the problem only arises because the Community has a totally comprehensive definition of "readily recognisable" enshrined in law. Any Parties who object to the proposal should be questioned on their own legal possibilities on this point.Conclusion: The Community shall actively support the proposed amendment.2. Concerning final cosmetic products containing caviar  Doc. 11.45.2Summary: Proposes considering final cosmetic products containing caviar of sturgeon species included in Appendix II as not readily recognisable in CITES terms.Comments: This issue arose at the European Regional meeting of January 1999 hosted by the Commission. The approach has been discussed at length in the Committee on Trade in Wild Fauna and Flora. The logic of the proposal is evident but comparisons with trade in Traditional Medicine products (e.g. musk Moschus) will need to be handled sensitively. If Parties insist on adding other products where the lack of conservation impact is less clear, we may need to reconsider our position. It is worth pointing out that the problem only arises because the Community has a totally comprehensive definition of "readily recognisable" enshrined in law. Any Parties who object to the proposal should be questioned on their own legal possibilities on this point.Conclusion: The Community shall actively support the proposed amendment.46. Cross-border movements of live animals for exhibition  Doc. 11.4647. Revision of resolutions on ranching and trade in ranched specimens         Doc. 11.47Summary: Revises and consolidates two existing Conference Resolutions on the subject (5.16(Rev) and 10.18) and provides for universal application of the ranching principle - previously it was limited to crocodilians. The proposal mandates the Secretariat to determine when an alteration of the management of the species necessitates a fresh proposal to the Conference of the Parties.Comments: Ranching has proved quite a successful management technique in CITES terms. The proposal clarifies the rules governing this activity and gives them wider applicability. It should be welcomed.Conclusion: The Community shall support the Animals Committee's proposal and contribute to the finalisation of a consolidated Resolution.48. Registration of operations breeding specimens of Appendix-I species in captivity for commercial purposes      Doc. 11.4849. Animal hybrids: amendment of Resolution Conf. 10.17  Doc. 11.49Summary: Proposes a small change to Conf. Resolution 10.17 to the effect that a hybrid animal shall be treated according to the 'highest' annex in which any of its antecedents in the previous four generations occurred. i.e. Appendix I if any specimens in its previous four generations was an Appendix I specimen etc.Comments: The proposed change is based on a suggestion from Australia at CoP10, subsequently adopted by the Animals Committee and promulgated in Notification 1998/28. Whilst it would probably be desirable to restrict opportunities for evading controls by extensively controlling trade in hybrid specimens, the wording of Article 2(t) of Regulation 338/97 would not appear to permit this in the Community at present.Conclusion: The Community shall support the proposed amendment to Resolution Conf. 10.17, whilst making it clear that it may not be possible for us to implement it completely in the immediate future.50. Use of microchips for marking live animals in trade  Doc. 11.50Summary: Proposes amendments to Resolution Conf. 8.13, to the effect that microchipping can be helpful as an identification tool for all live specimens. It divorces CITES from the ISIS database.Comments: This Resolution, even in its amended form, has little direct impact but can be seen as broadly helpful. The linkage to ISIS never worked properly and incurred unnecessary budgetary commitments.Conclusion: The Community shall support the proposed amendment to Resolution Conf. 8.13 and contribute to the final drafting.51. Universal tagging system for the identification of crocodilian skins Doc. 11.51Summary: Document proposing relatively minor changes existing Resolution Conf. 9.22 to deal with technical difficulties encountered and incorporate the contents of Resolution Conf. 6.17.Comments: Most changes seem sensible and understandable. However the proposed additions to point i) should be queried. It is unclear what the purpose of establishing a system of registration of tanners would be and it seems that the only actual "producers" of crocodilian skins are the crocodiles themselves.Conclusion: The Community shall support the proposed amendment of Resolution Conf. 9.22 and contribute to the drafting of a practical revision of the text.52. Movement of sample crocodilian skins    Doc. 11.52Summary: Proposes that the Secretariat investigate ways to streamline the procedures for the permitting of tagged crocodilian skins to be used in trade shows and returned to their country of origin.Comments: A simple request. European manufacturers of leather goods have expressed requests for similar measures for industrial samples. The difference being that the specimens are not marked in any way. However as draft decision seeks only to explore the possibilities, the Community could request the extension of the enquiry to all reptile products. It may be possible to draft a Conference Resolution on this subject at CoP11, if so care should be taken to ensure that it is framed in a way that can be implemented through the Community's existing legal framework.Conclusion: The Community shall support the draft Decision and seek its extension to other reptile products. If the opportunity arises, the Community should press for a Conference Resolution on this subject to be agreed and contribute to its drafting.53. Universal labelling system for the identification of sturgeon specimens (caviar)         Doc. 11.5354. Transport of live animals      Doc. 11.5455. Definition of the term "prepared"     Doc. 11.55Summary: Draft Resolution that seeks to define the word "prepared" in the context of "so prepared and shipped as to minimise the risk of injury, damage to health, or cruel treatment" as used in the text of the Convention in relation to the trade in live specimens. The definition would extend to all processes from capture to the point of export.Comments: It is undoubtedly true that excessive mortality in capture and pre-export handling is wasteful and can make it more difficult to achieve sustainability. However the terms of the Convention clearly relate the term "prepared" to the shipping of the specimens. It follows that this term should only apply when the handling of the specimens has a direct bearing on their survival etc during shipping. The proposal would best be considered as an amendment to Resolution Conf. 10.21Conclusion: The Community shall support the proposal provided that the term "prepared" is limited to relate only to circumstances when the treatment of live specimens will have a bearing on their fitness for shipping.56. Trade in traditional medicines     Doc. 11.5657. The Information Management Strategy    Doc. 11.5758. Potential risk of wildlife trade to the tourism industry  Doc. 11.58Summary: Draft Resolution that highlights the commercial importance but also the possible side-effects of wildlife-related tourism. It notes possible threats to tourism industries from wildlife trade.Comments: Much of this draft Resolution appears outside the scope of CITES. The perceived threat to tourism from wildlife trade is cited as that from poaching and the "bush wars" which sometime result during its control. Poaching is a danger whether or not wildlife trade is occurring. It is worth noting that in the case of sport hunting, tourism and wildlife trade are actually combined.Conclusion: The Community shall oppose the draft Resolution.Consideration of proposals for amendment of Appendices I and II59. Proposals to amend Appendices I and II1. Proposals resulting from the periodic review by the Plants Committee Doc.11.59.1&gt;TABLE POSITION&gt;2. Proposals concerning export quotas for specimens of species in Appendix I or II         Doc. 11.59.2&gt;TABLE POSITION&gt;3. Other proposals       Doc. 11.59.3&gt;TABLE POSITION&gt;Conclusion of the meeting60. Determination of the time and venue of the next regular meeting of the Conference of the Parties       Doc. 11.60Summary:Comments:Conclusion: The Community shall support the candidature of any Member States proposing to host the next Conference and endeavour to avoid the situation where two or more Member States compete for this task.61. Closing remarks      no document