One step closer in keeping illegal timber off the market-Bowles

3.18.33pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 23rd Apr 2009

Progress was made yesterday in protecting one of the world's most valuable and threatened resources. A vote in the European Parliament took the EU one step closer to banning the import and sale of illegally logged timber.

The adopted report secures a concrete system of traceability and monitoring in the sale of timber. It requires the legal status of timber to be proven throughout the supply chain and imposes tougher penalties on people that supply illegal timber.

South East Euro-MP, Sharon Bowles, who has been supporting the campaign to end the trade in illegal timber, said:

"I am delighted that we have moved one step closer in keeping illegal timber off the market.

"Illegal logging poses a multiple of risks. It contributes significantly to deforestation, aids organised crime, threatens the rights of indigenous people and undercuts commercial timber markets across the globe.

"The EU has outwardly condemned the trade in illegal timber yet provides one of the biggest markets. Indeed, the EU is responsible for an estimated 16-19% of global illegal timber imports, whilst the UK is the largest importer of illegal wood.

"Many constituents have contacted me about illegal logging which indicates that this is an issue people feel very strongly about. I now hope that the Commission will follow the Parliament and strengthen its current weak position."