Joanna Lumley strongly criticized the Trump administration for pressuring the UK to lift a ban on importing trophies from hunting. The renowned actress and activist, along with actor Peter Egan, expressed their concerns after Doug Bergum, Trump’s Interior Secretary, wrote to UK Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds to reconsider the ban. Bergum argued that the ban could negatively impact hunting tourism, conservation efforts, and cultural sensitivities in the US.
President Trump, whose sons Donald Jr. and Eric are avid hunters, had previously reversed a ban on trophy imports that was implemented in the US during Barack Obama’s presidency. The Mirror has actively advocated for a ban on trophy hunting imports, a stance also supported by the Labour Government’s manifesto. Despite delays, Minister Mary Creagh from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enforcing the ban.
However, multiple attempts to pass trophy hunting Bills into law have been thwarted due to a lack of Parliamentary time, with one Bill being blocked by pro-hunting peers in the House of Lords. Dame Joanna Lumley emphasized the need for the UK government to stand firm against Trump’s administration, stating that trophy hunting has no place in a modern society.
Actor Peter Egan echoed Lumley’s sentiments, expressing shock and horror at the pressure from the US to abandon the ban, which has widespread public support. The Campaign to Ban Trophy Hunting founder, Eduardo Goncalves, condemned the Trump administration’s interference with the UK’s sovereign decision, urging the government to uphold its commitment to the ban.
In his letter to Ms. Reynolds, Bergum highlighted the importance of regulated trophy hunting in supporting wildlife populations, habitat restoration, and local economies. He urged the UK to engage through established channels rather than implement a blanket ban on imports. The UK government and various stakeholders continue to navigate the complexities surrounding trophy hunting imports as the debate unfolds.