The absurdities of the government’s proposals are evident and unworkable, and leave millions of attractive but not outstanding ivories, and items containing ivory, in limbo.
I quite understand why the government has given in to overwhelming public demand for this ban from well-meaning animal lovers, who simply don’t understand the implications for dealers, collectors and auctioneers.
Instead of just giving in, let’s have a coherent explanation from pressure groups as to how banning the sale of pre-1947 ivory is going to save the life of a single elephant – because it won’t – and how such a ban is relevant, because it’s not.
Legislation based on sentiment is bad legislation.
Ian Harris
N Bloom & Son
