Labour launches petition to stop whaling plans

Labour launches petition to stop Key's whaling plans

Public pressure is the only way to stop the National Government agreeing to commercial whaling in the Southern Ocean, Labour’s Foreign Affairs Spokesman Chris Carter says.

“John Key’s great plan to save the whales is apparently allowing the Japanese to hunt them commercially. This appalling move can only be stopped by public pressure, so the New Zealand Labour Party is starting an online petition,” Mr Carter said.

“New Zealanders must send a very clear message to John Key and Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully that a return to commercial whaling is not an option.

“New Zealand has built a reputation as a clean green country which values conservation. Agreeing to commercial whaling will harm this country’s international reputation and is a step backward.

“John Key and Murray McCully should be working with the Australian Government which has given Japan a clear choice: stop killing whales in the Southern Ocean by November or this year face the legal consequences at the International Court of Justice. New Zealand should be joining with Australia in this action instead of undermining Australia’s efforts?

“It seems John Key is looking for an easy solution to a problem rather than looking to do what is right.

“Many New Zealanders will be outraged by the decision of the National Government to kowtow to the hunting programme of the Japanese whalers. My office has already received numerous calls from people wanting to know what they can do, which is why I am launching an online petition for people who want to oppose all moves to restart commercial whaling.

“The public has a right to be heard on this important issue,” Chris Carter said.

“I would urge people to sign the petition and send a strong message to John Key.”

The online petition can be found at carter.org.nz/savethewhales.

ENDS