CONSERVATIVE MP Henry Smith has called on ministers to ban imports of foie gras and fur ahead of the next General Election.

He told GB News: “Foie gras is the force feeding of geese and ducks, if we ban the production of that food in this country, then I think we should also think it’s unacceptable to import those products. Just to sort of allow that practice to go on elsewhere is simply exporting the cruelty.

“So, I think it’s the right thing to do, to ban imports of foie gras and fur. The vast majority of the public agree with that. It’s a simple measure that’s now possible because of Brexit, that we have these freedoms to be able to do that. The banning of live animal exports for slaughter as well, is another thing I think we need to pursue.

“These are easy for the Government to do; they enhance animal welfare. And frankly, it’s not the main reason for doing something, but it helps to be popular as well.”

Asked about the party’s electoral prospects in an interview with Gloria De Piero, Mr Smith, who is due to step down as an MP, continued: “Part of a strong democracy is being able to have frank discussions and debates between parties and within parties.

“But I also think there’s an important point of unity for the sake of delivering for the country. I think where it perhaps becomes a distraction is when it’s about the politicians, and it’s not about the people who’ve elected them to deliver. I think that’s where the problem comes in.”

He added: “It’s addressing the fundamentals in politics and what matters to people that is absolutely important. It is tough, after 13 years of being in government.

“But I think you know, if you look to address people’s fundamental hopes and wishes and actually sort of almost old-fashioned politics, then I think that it is possible to deliver.

“I don’t think the next election is in the bag for anybody. And so the interesting time of British politics, I think, continues.”