skip to main content

Government Opens Consultation on Extending Elephant Ivory Ban to Non-Elephant Ivory

Whilst deploring the existing elephant ivory poaching trade, the MU has stated that the ban should not be extended to instruments containing non-elephant ivory.

Published: 20 August 2021 | 5:15 PM
Photograph of the inside of a harpsichord instrument.
Extending the ban to other ivories used in instrument manufacture and repair will have a detrimental effect on musicians. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The Government is consulting on whether it should extend the ban on the commercial dealing of elephant ivory in the UK to non-elephant ivory.

The MU has responded by saying that musical instruments containing Mammoth or other non-elephant ivory, without exception or reference to date and amount of Ivory used, should be exempt from any such ban.

We understand and support the arguments around elephant ivory and are pleased that the Government have listened to the concerns of the MU, ABO and MIA in introducing the exemption for Musical Instruments.

However, to extend the ban to other ivories used in instrument manufacture and repair will have a detrimental effect on musicians and no impact on the existing elephant ivory poaching trade, which we entirely deplore.

Members can make their own submissions on Defra’s website until 11 September.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

Brighton pier at sunrise.

Meet the MU at The Great Escape Festival 2025

The MU will once again be present at The Great Escape Festival, supporting members and engaging with key industry topics between Wednesday 14 and Friday 16 May in Brighton.

Published: 08 May 2025

Read more about Meet the MU at The Great Escape Festival 2025
Exterior long shot of Caird Hall, Dundee., where Congress takes place.

MU Represents Scottish Musicians at STUC Congress 2025

Last week we attended the annual Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) with MU Delegates Ronnie MacNiven, Ben Lunn and Calum Baird, who discussed the value of music education, fair work for musicians, the need for stability of the arts, and more. All of our motions were passed unanimously.

Published: 06 May 2025

Read more about MU Represents Scottish Musicians at STUC Congress 2025