By Julius Goldthorpe

Regardless of which political party reigns triumphant in the upcoming UK general election on May 6, one area where we can expect to see change is the UK policy on the illegal timber trade. With the three leading political parties agreeing, at the very least, the UK needs a domestic ban on the importation of illegal timber.

The agreement between Labour, the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats fully underlines the importance of this issue. With all parties stating in their election manifestos that a UK ban on illegally logged timber is essential. Labour and the Liberal Democrats have gone one step further by suggesting a campaign for an EU-wide ban to be implemented if they can gain support from other EU nations.

UK Minister of Environment Hilary Benn, believes the EU cannot expect to see a decline in deforestation if it continues to allow the importation of illegal timber from foreign soil. He also indicated at the 15th Illegal Logging Update, held at Chatham House, that if an agreement on a ban could not be met at a continental level, then the UK would take action at a national level.

Benn also criticised the policies of other EU members with regards to illegal logging. He believes it is the responsibility of EU nations to stop illegal timber from entering Europe and, in turn, help reduce the global warming effect that is caused by deforestation. He said: “It’s no good being in the same boat as everyone else if that boat is sinking.”

But, it is not just the EU politicians that are divided over this topic. The European timber industries also have their fair share of sceptics. Some industries favour a ban because it would reduce competition. However, others are concerned that a ban could lead to excessive bureaucracy for forest owners.

Despite concerns expressed by some EU members, it is believed that an agreement to suit all parties may be within reach.

Although the UK does face opposition to a ban, it is not alone in its desire to put a stop to the illegal timber trade. André de Boer, of the European Timber Trade Federation insists: “We must make illegal trade an offence under criminal law.”

If a law is passed, Benn is sure concerns regarding increased bureaucracy will be short lived. “A prohibition would be a boost for the domestic timber industry,” he said.

The cost of incorporating this law into EU policy is unclear, but Benn believes “the argument for getting this done in Europe is overwhelming.”