eurealist.co.uk

The Press: Corgis to be banned by EU

“Certain breeds of the Queen’s favourite dog could be outlawed under a controversial EU convention being considered by ministers, it emerged last night. Some corgis - along with bulldogs, cocker spaniels and King Charles spaniels - could be among 100 breeds banned, animal lovers fear…”
(Daily Mail, 30 April 2002)

The Facts: This “EU convention” in fact has nothing whatsoever to do with the EU.

A committee of animal protection experts drew up the European Convention for the Protection of Pet Animals in 1987 under the auspices of the Council of Europe - an intergovernmental organisation based in Strasbourg and completely separate from the EU. The UK is a member but has so far declined to become a signatory to this voluntary agreement designed to improve the welfare of household pets.

Notes: I do not even need to check this the EU is of course quite right - it often amazes me that so many who should, do not know the difference between the EU and the European Council and constantly muddle the two most often in the area of Human Rights.