Overview

This bill aims to make it illegal in the UK to import, export, transport, sell, receive, acquire, or purchase timber or timber products illegally harvested from their country of origin. It establishes penalties for those involved in the trade of illegally sourced timber and requires those handling timber to demonstrate due diligence in verifying its legal origin.

Description

The Illegally Logged Timber (Prohibition of Import, Sale or Distribution) Bill defines "illegally" harvested timber as timber obtained in contravention of the applicable legislation in the country of origin. This legislation covers various aspects, including environmental protection, forest management, rights of indigenous peoples, and trade regulations. The bill specifically targets importers and distributors, making it an offence to sell, offer for sale, or keep for sale timber known to be illegally sourced. Defences exist if the accused can prove they had no reason to believe the timber was illegal and took reasonable steps to verify its origin, including obtaining a signed statement from their supplier confirming their due diligence. Penalties for those found guilty include significant fines (up to £200,000 for importers and distributors under section 2(1), and up to £10,000 under section 2(4) ) and imprisonment (up to 5 years under section 2(1), and up to 1 year under section 2(4)). The Secretary of State can increase these penalties through order. Forfeiture of the illegal timber is also mandated. Buyers knowingly purchasing illegally sourced timber also face penalties. The bill applies to England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

Government Spending

The bill does not directly specify any increase or decrease in government spending. However, enforcement of the legislation will likely require resources from relevant government departments to investigate offences and prosecute offenders, potentially leading to increased spending in law enforcement and regulatory bodies. The exact cost is not provided within the text of the bill.

Groups Affected

• Importers and distributors of timber: They will face potential criminal liability if they handle illegally sourced timber. The impact could include significant fines, imprisonment, and loss of business.
• Consumers of timber products: Indirectly affected, as the increased scrutiny on the supply chain might lead to higher prices for legally sourced timber and timber products.
• Law enforcement agencies: Will be responsible for enforcing the new legislation, potentially increasing their workload and resource requirements.
• Businesses involved in legitimate timber trade: These businesses will need to implement robust due diligence procedures to ensure they comply with the law, which could involve additional administrative costs.
• Indigenous populations: Potentially positively affected by the legislation, as it aims to protect their rights related to forest resources.

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