The British government is facing pressure from the Trump administration over plans to ban imports of trophies from hunting. Interior Secretary Doug Bergum wrote to Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds, expressing concerns about the ban’s impact on local economies, conservation efforts, and cultural sensitivities in the US.
President Trump, whose sons are known trophy hunters, previously lifted a ban on trophy imports put in place by the Obama administration. Pro-hunting groups such as the Safari Club International and Dallas Safari Club supported Trump’s re-election campaign.
The Mirror has advocated for a ban on trophy hunting imports, a measure included in the Labour Government’s manifesto. Despite delays in passing legislation due to lack of Parliamentary time and opposition from pro-hunting peers, the government remains committed to the ban.
Eduardo Goncalves, founder of The Campaign to Ban Trophy Hunting, criticized the Trump administration’s interference, emphasizing the UK’s sovereign right to enact the ban. He highlighted public support and parliamentary backing for the ban, urging swift legislative action.
Bergum’s letter to Reynolds argued that regulated trophy hunting contributes to wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, and local economies. He encouraged the UK to engage in dialogue rather than implement a blanket ban on all imports.