Bird smuggling takes its toll on rare species

Article Abstract:

Illegal trading in exotic birds including endangered species is increasing, with over 200,000 imported into the UK in 1991. A very rare bird sells for about 25,000 pounds sterling. The RSPCA and the Environmental Investigation Agency want wild bird trade banned because of the ecological danger: 77 of the 300 parrot species are almost extinct. Customs officers find it difficult to convict smugglers as they use ingenious methods and the authorities have to prove the smugglers' intention of breaking the law. Martin Barber and Christopher Turner were caught smuggling parrots from Australia in February 1992. Anthony Prior was arrested at Gatwick Airport in January 1992 for smuggling 130 rare Siverian bullfinches and goldfinches worth about 8,000 pounds sterling.

United Kingdom, Crime, Smuggling, Customs administration, Parrots, Exotic birds

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Illegal trade threatens rare wild flowers with extinction

Article Abstract:

The wildlife trade monitoring organisation Traffic will publish a report in Sep 1992 which reveals how illegal European rare flower trade is threatening the extinction of some species. The report recommends uniform European legislation, better training of Customs officers and the introduction of nursery licences for specialist cultivators. Investigators visited over 100 nurseries in 8 countries. UK collectors are the worst offenders. Plants can fetch thousands of Pounds sterling depending on their rarity.

Laws, regulations and rules, Plant conservation, Rare plants

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Council 'turned blind eye to abuse claims.' (Greenwich council accused of ignoring claims of brutality in one of its children's homes)

Article Abstract:

Four former residents of a children's home in Gavestone Road, Greenwich, London, are seeking compensation from Greenwich council for their treatment there. They claim that they suffered physical and sexual assaults from a member of staff at the home, who would routinely beat up residents. There are charges of rape against both boys and girls by the member of staff, who was not even qualificed to be a care worker.

Care and treatment, Cases, Children, Child abuse

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