Overview

This bill aims to strengthen the UK's ban on ivory trading, enhancing enforcement and clarifying the exceptions to the ban. Key changes include shifting power from the Secretary of State to devolved administrations and introducing powers for accredited civilian officers to enforce the legislation.

Description

The amendments to the Ivory Bill primarily focus on clarifying responsibilities and strengthening enforcement mechanisms. Significant changes involve replacing references to "guidance issued by the Secretary of State" with "regulations made by the appropriate national authority," distributing regulatory power across the UK's devolved administrations. This includes specifying which authority (e.g., Arts Council England, Welsh Government) is responsible for accrediting museums in their respective regions for holding ivory items. Appeals against decisions regarding ivory exemptions are routed through the First-tier Tribunal, and accredited civilian officers receive new powers of entry and investigation, subject to certain restrictions (e.g., no entry to homes). The bill also clarifies the treatment of ivory acquired under existing insurance contracts, exempting such transactions from the trading ban.

Government Spending

The bill's direct impact on government spending is not explicitly stated. However, the creation of the accredited civilian officer scheme and increased enforcement activity may lead to increased costs associated with training, salaries and operational expenses. The costs associated with the establishment of new regulations and the tribunal process will also need to be accounted for. No precise figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Museums: The bill affects museums' ability to hold and display ivory items, dependent on accreditation from the appropriate national authority.
• Ivory traders and dealers: The bill significantly restricts their activities, potentially impacting their livelihoods.
• Police and customs officers: The bill expands their powers to enforce the ivory ban.
• Accredited civilian officers: A new group with powers to enforce the legislation is established.
• Individuals possessing ivory: The bill clarifies the legal position of individuals holding ivory legally under prior regulations.
• Insurance companies and policyholders: The bill clarifies rules on handling ivory items within insurance claims.
• Devolved Administrations: The bill gives them greater regulatory control over ivory within their respective jurisdictions.

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