EUROPEN
Britta Thomsen, MEP
Britta Thomsen, MEP
Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament

"As long as the industry meets animal welfare standards I don’t see how it is different from any other industry where animals are involved. Fur production is one of the main export industries in Denmark. To shut it down would mean losing a lot of jobs."

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ARGUMENT AGAINST THE PRODUCTION OF FUR?

That we are actually capable of producing artificial fur products which are almost identical to real fur.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ARGUMENT IN FAVOUR OF FUR PRODUCTION?

As long as the industry meets animal welfare standards I don't see how it is different from any other industry where animals are involved. Fur production is one of the main export industries in Denmark. To shut it down would mean losing a lot of jobs.

IS FUR A MORE LEGITIMATE PRODUCT WHEN THE CARCASSES ARE USED FOR ENERGY PURPOSES?

The goal for EU is that 10 percent of the fuel consumption in the transport sector should derive from renewable energy in 2020. Biofuels is one way of achieving this goal. Since the carcasses can be used in biofuels it makes me feel better knowing that no resources were wasted, if animal welfare standards are met.

IN YOUR OPINION, IS AGRICULTURE A PART OF THE SOLUTION OF THE EUROPEAN ENERGY CHALLENGE?

Yes, we are working towards a sustainable energy future, and sustainable bio fuels are a part of that future.

WHAT SHOULD BE THE AMBITION OF THE EUROPEAN FUR INDUSTRY?

To be profitable and to treat animals ethically.