People in Great Britain being asked for views on fur trade ban (2024)

The public is being asked to weigh in on the fur trade, as the government considers a potential ban on sales across Great Britain.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has launched a call for evidence amid plans for tighter animal welfare standards following Brexit. The consultation will consider the social and economic impacts of fur sales, both in Great Britain and overseas.

It is understood that Great Britain could introduce an outright ban depending on the feedback it receives.

England and Wales were the first countries in Europe to ban fur farming in 2000, with Scotland and Northern Ireland following in 2002, introducing strict rules prohibiting the import of skin and fur products from commercial seal hunting and domestic cats and dogs. However, the sale of other furs are still legal in the UK. Carrie Symonds, Boris Johnson’s wife, has described anyone who buys fur as “really sick”.

The government has been been mulling tougher rules after Brexit, given the UK is no longer bound by the EU’s single market rules that blocked any individual country from taking a unilateral stance on fur trading.

“We already have some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world and as an independent nation we are now able to re-examine some of our animal welfare laws, including the import of fur for use in fashion products,” said the environment secretary, George Eustice.

“The views, data and case studies we receive will be vital to helping us inform future government policy in this area including by better understanding the trade both at home and abroad.”

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Any new policy will only cover company sales, and will not cover private sales between individuals.

Hundreds of fashion designers and brands – including Coach, Giorgio Armani, Gucci, Donna Karan, Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren and Versace – have already stopped using fur, according to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta).

However, the British Fur Alliance has argued that natural fur is an antidote to environmentally damaging fast fashion, and should not be banned if it is ethically sourced.

People in Great Britain being asked for views on fur trade ban (2024)

FAQs

People in Great Britain being asked for views on fur trade ban? ›

The 2018 YouGov poll found that over two-thirds of respondents (69%) would support a ban on the import and sale of fur in the UK [32]. The 2020 YouGov poll then revealed a percentage in support of a ban that was even slightly higher (72%), with only 16% of people opposed.

What is the public opinion on fur? ›

Recent Data for Progress polling shows that almost two-thirds of likely voters, including 71 percent of Democrats, 60 percent of Independents and over half of Republicans, want to ban the practice of raising animals solely for fur production.

What are the horrors of the fur industry? ›

Numerous investigations of fur farms across many fur-producing countries have documented atrocities, including animals with eye infections, sores on their feet from filthy wire cages, missing limbs and festering, untreated open wounds (some so deep that their brains are visible); babies kept in cages with the rotting ...

Is real fur banned in the UK? ›

Overview. Fur farming has been banned in England and Wales since 2000 and in Scotland and Northern Ireland since 2002. We also have restrictions on the import of fur from domestic cats and dogs, from commercial seal hunts, and from wild animals trapped for their fur.

Has the UK banned fur farming? ›

The UK has historically been a leader on animal rights, becoming the first European country to ban fur farming on ethical grounds back in 2003.

Why are people against fur? ›

Far from being a natural resource, fur production is an intensely toxic and energy-consumptive process, with pelts being dipped in toxic chemical soups and animal waste runoff from fur factory farms polluting soil and waterways.

Why are people against animal fur? ›

In addition to causing the suffering and deaths of millions of animals each year, the production of wool, fur, and leather contributes to climate change, land devastation, pollution, and water contamination.

What animal is killed most for fur? ›

Painful and Short Lives

The most commonly farmed fur-bearing animals are minks, followed by foxes.

How did the fur trade have a negative impact? ›

The fur trade was both very good and very bad for American Indians who participated in the trade. The fur trade gave Indians steady and reliable access to manufactured goods, but the trade also forced them into dependency on European Americans and created an epidemic of alcoholism.

When did wearing fur become controversial? ›

Anti-fur campaigns gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, with the participation of numerous celebrities. Fur clothing has become the focus of boycotts due to the opinion that it is cruel and unnecessary.

What country buys the most fur? ›

Chinese consumers are the world's biggest buyers of fur, but some are beginning to ask questions and rethink their support of the trade, according to an exclusive Vogue Business survey.

Does anyone still wear real fur coats? ›

It is worn by indigenous people and the Inuit people for many years, and it is because fur offers amazing insulating qualities. Fur, while not as popular as it once was, is still worn and produced these days. Countries such as China, Denmark, and Poland are known to be their biggest producers.

Has Gucci banned fur? ›

In 2017 Gucci sent out a widely publicised press release that the Florentine fashion house would ban fur from its collections. In a statement the company said its new policy underlined a modern and ethical vision for luxury.

Are there still fur farms in the US? ›

There are an estimated 250 fur farms across 21 U.S. states. In 2021, the U.S. produced 1.44 million mink pelts, worth nearly $60 million. Of those pelts, 579,460 were contributed by Wisconsin, which continues to be the nation's largest mink producer. It is followed by Utah, which accounted for 319,690 pelts.

Why did the British want fur? ›

The fur trade started because of a fashion craze in Europe during the 17th century. Europeans wanted to wear felt hats made of beaver fur.

Is fur banned in the US? ›

Very little U.S. federal law exists regulating the treatment of fur animals. The Animal Welfare Act, which works to ensure humane treatment of animals, specifically exempts fur animals that are raised for their pelts.

Is it cruel to wear fur? ›

Whether it came from an animal on a fur farm or one who was trapped in the wild, every fur coat, trinket, and bit of trim caused an animal tremendous suffering—and took away a life. Each year, approximately 100 million animals are killed for their fur.

Do animals have to be killed for fur? ›

To preserve the pelts, animals on fur farms are killed by inhumane methods, such as gassing and head-to-tail electrocution. Fox and raccoon dogs are generally electrocuted through the mouth and anus; a method with potential to inflict severe pain and distress on the animal.

Is Rihanna wearing real fur? ›

Earlier this year the animal rights organisation sent Rihanna a fake fur coat to replace her real ones and wrote an open letter requesting she stop wearing real fur. (Although rewind three years previously and PETA actually gave Rihanna a Compassion in Fashion award for Fenty's faux leather collection…)

Is fur cruel to animals? ›

Is fur farming cruel? Yes. Animals bred for their fur such as foxes, rabbits, raccoon dogs and mink are confined in small, barren, wire cages for their entire lives.

Why is fur farming cruel? ›

Fur farming is inherently inhumane, as wild animals are bred and raised in captivity for our use. Even after generations of hand-raising, these animals are wild in nature. They still have the animal welfare needs of their wild counterparts, which cannot be met on a farm.

Is animal fur ethical? ›

Farms in the US are certified by Fur Commission USA while, in Canada, farmers follow codes of practice developed by the National Farm Animal Care Council. So the North American fur trade also satisfies our second ethical criterion: no unnecessary pain or cruelty is inflicted on fur animals in North America.

What animal has the nicest fur? ›

And which one is the softest fur in the world? High quality natural chinchilla fur is unbeatable when it comes to softness, and chinchilla coats actually take the top prize for being the softest fur coats around.

What animal is the #1 killer? ›

Mosquitos

What animal kills the most humans in the United States? ›

Surprisingly, deer kill more people a year in America than any other animal. America is a country that's abundant in wildlife, and inevitably some of that wildlife is dangerous to humans.

What ended the fur trade? ›

Many Indigenous peoples soon came to depend on the fur trade as their primary source of income and European-manufactured goods. However, by the mid-19th century changing fashions in Europe brought about a collapse in fur prices and led to the closure of several fur companies.

Why was the fur trade unfair? ›

But the fur trade made some Indigenous peoples dependent on European goods. While some groups profited from the new interactions, others became victims of new diseases and unfair trading practices that placed them at a disadvantage.

Was the fur trade violent? ›

The strains created by the fur trade sometimes led to brief but violent conflict. Yet the traders and American Indians who exchanged goods and ideas had to meet on peaceful terms in order for the process to take place.

What is the most expensive fur? ›

Russian sable is still the most prized and expensive fur in the world for its legendary silky quality, rarity and light weight. A little sable jacket starts at about $16,000 and a top quality silvery coat can run upward of $150,000.

How long do fur coats last? ›

As long as you purchase a good quality fur from a reputable furrier it should last more than long enough to justify the cost. Although the longevity of fur varies from one type to another, a good quality mink coat, with proper care (storage and cleaning every year) can last up to 20 years or more.

What was the first city to ban fur? ›

West Hollywood, known for its animal-friendly legislation, was the first city to pass a fur ban in 2011, which went into effect in 2013.

Does Michael Kors use real fur? ›

Chairman and CEO John D. Idol added, “I am pleased to announce our company's commitment to no longer use animal fur in our Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo collections. This decision marks a new chapter as our company continues to evolve its use of innovative materials.” The HSUS applauded the news.

Does Louis Vuitton use fur? ›

Louis Vuitton is one of the last remaining brands that still uses antiquated fur and exotic skins—both of which are the product of tremendous animal abuse.

What states banned fur? ›

California has become the first US state to ban the sale of new animal fur products. The law, which was introduced in 2019, was implemented on January 1, 2023. It states that no such products can be manufactured or sold across the whole of the Golden State.

Can you wear fur in Paris? ›

Yes, I can wear fur in Paris. I think it is a personal choice and I don't think it is wrong to wear fur. Some people might not like it, but that is their opinion.

Are teddy coats still in 2023? ›

Are teddy coats still in style in 2023? Designers and customers have responded with a resounding yes to this question! Teddy coats are very much still in style for the 2023 winter season– everyone from Max Mara to Ann Taylor has a version available.

Are old mink coats worth anything? ›

The value of a vintage mink coat depends on a variety of factors, including the condition, size, brand and quality. A small mink coat could sell for under $300 while a top designer coat could sell for over $10,000.

Does Burberry still use fur? ›

Burberry pledged to go fur free in 2018 and – so far as anyone knows – has kept that promise.

Does Chanel still use real fur? ›

In a monumental victory for animals, Chanel announced that it had banned fur and exotic skins—including crocodile, lizard, and snake skin! This move follows decades of pressure from PETA and means that countless animals will be spared a miserable life and a painful, violent death.

Is Nordstrom no longer selling fur? ›

We are excited to share that in partnership with the Humane Society of the United States, Nordstrom has made the decision to stop offering products made with exotic animal skins or genuine fur in any of our stores or online.

Did Macy's stop selling fur? ›

Macy's and its subsidiary, Bloomingdale's, will stop selling fur by February 2021, the company announced on Monday. The new fur-free policy includes all Macy's and Bloomingdale's private brands, as well as items sold from brand partners, according to a press release.

What do fur farms do with the meat? ›

What Happens to Mink Meat. According to industry-friendly reports, mink bodies are turned into oils, fertilizers, and cosmetic products such as faux eyelashes. Humane Society International has even reported mink meat being sold to unsuspecting diners at restaurants in China.

Can you eat mink meat? ›

After pelting, mink bodies are typically sent for either incineration or rendering where they can be converted into bone and meat meal.

How much was a beaver pelt worth in the 1700s? ›

From 1713 to 1726, before the carotting process had become established, coat beaver generally fetched a higher price than parchment beaver, averaging 6.6 shillings per pelt as compared to 5.5 shillings.

How much is a beaver pelt worth? ›

Top quality beaver pelts may bring in $25 or more, but you can also sell your lower-quality beaver pelts for the hat market.

Who made money from fur trade? ›

For nearly 200 years afterward, European American traders exchanged manufactured goods with Native people for valuable furs. The Ojibwe and Dakota held powerful positions, prompting both the French and British to actively court their military and trade allegiance.

Did California ban fur? ›

Does Anyone Care? The popularity of fur products had been diminishing in the state even before the new ban.

Can you wear real fur in California? ›

California's ban on the sale of fur is now official, effective January 1, 2023. Whew. Thank goodness we no longer have to be concerned with barbarians who wear fur.

Are real fur coats illegal in UK? ›

Fur Farming has been banned in Britain since 2000 but it is still legal to sell some furs that have been imported although there is a growing political movement to ban Fur sales altogether. Due to everchanging legal matters and new laws, it is often illegal to sell numerous types of fur.

Is real fur still popular? ›

It is worn by indigenous people and the Inuit people for many years, and it is because fur offers amazing insulating qualities. Fur, while not as popular as it once was, is still worn and produced these days. Countries such as China, Denmark, and Poland are known to be their biggest producers.

When did fur become unpopular? ›

The use of animal skins was brought to light during the 1980s by animal rights organizations while the demand for fur decreased. Anti-fur organizations raised awareness of animal welfare issues within the fashion industry.

Why do people like real fur? ›

Real fur offers incomparable, high quality warmth and comfort. The key to stay warm without sweating and overheating is good breathability and comfort. Most of the natural materials like cotton do not provide warmth while synthetic materials do not offer good breathability.

What are some statistics about fur? ›

Every year, over 90 million animals are killed for the fur fashion industry, with 44.4 million mink and 7.8 million foxes alone being killed for fur production. In 2021, the U.S. imported 64.2 million dollars worth of fur apparel, a decrease from 2019 and 2013.

Does Louis Vuitton use real fur? ›

Louis Vuitton is one of the last remaining brands that still uses antiquated fur and exotic skins—both of which are the product of tremendous animal abuse.

Does anyone wear mink coats anymore? ›

“While there are still parts of the world and segments of the population who buy fur and mink coats, consumers, especially younger consumers, are increasingly demanding fur-free clothing,” said Sarah Willersdorf, the global head of luxury at Boston Consulting Group.

What is the rarest fur? ›

Russian sable is still the most prized and expensive fur in the world for its legendary silky quality, rarity and light weight.

Can I wear a fur coat in California? ›

Additionally, the law does not impact fur ownership rights, and it remains legal to wear fur garments in the state. Under this new legislation, leading department stores, including Macy's, Bloomingdale's and.

Are fur coats illegal in the US? ›

In the United States, California became the first US state to ban the sale of fur in 2019 (the ban came into effect in January 2023) following similar bans in cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Berkeley and West Hollywood.

Is wearing fur ethical? ›

Farms in the US are certified by Fur Commission USA while, in Canada, farmers follow codes of practice developed by the National Farm Animal Care Council. So the North American fur trade also satisfies our second ethical criterion: no unnecessary pain or cruelty is inflicted on fur animals in North America.

Is it OK to wear vintage fur? ›

Wearing vintage fur will also add a significant amount of fur back to the markets making unnecessary new fur. Re introducing vintage fur in the market will also have an impact in the fur market reducing prices and making less competitive new fur. Wearing vintage fur coats is ethical and also it is sustainable.

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