Japan urged to recall whaling fleet - Guardian News

[Annces]

New Zealand and Australia today called for a Japanese whaling fleet to return to port a day after it set off for the southern ocean whale sanctuary vowing to slaughter more than 1,000 whales. Among the targets of the hunt, which is being carried out in the name of scientific research, are 50 protected humpbacks.

The demand follows international protest at the fleet's departure yesterday. Britain is one of several other countries to have condemned the expedition, which will see humpbacks killed for the first time since they became a protected species more than 40 years ago.


Japan has killed almost 10,500 whales, mainly minkes and Brydes, since the commercial ban was introduced. This year, the fleet expects to catch 835 minke whales and 50 endangered fin whales in its biggest scientific expedition yet. But most international anger is directed at plans to kill humpback whales for the first time since the species was protected in 1963.

Having dwindled to just 1,200 in the 1960s, the humpback population now stands at between 30,000 and 40,000, according to the American Cetacean Society. The species is listed as vulnerable by the World Conservation Union.

Known for their size, complex songs and athleticism, humpbacks are a favourite among the estimated 1.5 million whale-watchers, who watch them make their way along the Australian coast every year.

Alex Dower, the Australian foreign minister, said he was "deeply disappointed" with Japan's decision to go ahead with the hunt. "The government again appeals to Japan to reconsider its position on this inhumane practice, which is also opposed by the majority of nations," he said. Robert McClelland, foreign affairs spokesman for the opposition Labour party, suggested the Australian military could be dispatched to track the whalers if, as the polls indicate, Labour takes power in elections this weekend.

"We really need to rattle a cage here," he said. "It's unacceptable that it's not only going on but getting worse."

Britain is also considering making a "high-level diplomatic protest" to Japan, according to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Full article
http://www.guardian.co.uk/japan/story/0,,2213530,00.html




www.seashepherd.org

[TheMightyFavog]

1. See this is why I wouldn't make a good Navy commander.

I wouldn't be able to resist the temptation to launch a few Harpoon missiles at these Japanese whaling ships.

[Glorfindel]

2. I don't get it. What the HELL is wrong with the Japanese?

Can't they join the rest of civilized humanity? As far as I'm concerned, this is nothing short of murder, and eating whale flesh is only one (small) step above cannibalism. :grr: :nuke:

[Annces]

3. I don't know either

Except to say they must have no concept of conservation.