Whaling Commission debates possible repeal of whaling ban

0 Comments | AFP, November, 2004

STOCKHOLM (AFP) — The International Whaling Commission (IWC) began a week-long meeting in Sweden to discuss possible new catch limits, a move that could eventually lead to a repeal of an international ban on commercial whaling.

"All the international members and observers are here to try to work out texts on future whaling regulations," Swedish IWC commissioner Bo Fernholm told AFP.

Swedish media reports suggested that the negotiations could possibly lead to a resumption of commercial whaling under strict international surveillance.

More than 30 countries were reportedly represented at the special working meeting on the Swedish island of Oeland, including Australia, Britain, Japan, New Zealand, Norway and the United States.

Sweden called the meeting...