Mark Dreyfus (Isaacs, Australian Labor Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

The Australian government will argue that Japan's so-called scientific whaling is contrary to its international obligations and must be brought to an end. Modern science can obtain the information we need to understand and protect whales without harming them. An example of this is that Australian scientists achieved a world first this year by attaching satellite tracking devices to Antarctic blue whales and minke whales. They will use this research to understand how whales feed and where they breed. Our scientists tell us that we still have a lot to learn about whale behaviour.

Of course, Japan is a friend and our nations agree that the International Court of Justice is the best place to resolve our differences. We have many differences with the coalition, but on this matter there is consensus across the political divide. I look forward to joining our legal team at the international court. I consider it an honour to represent our nation in this case. I know that all Australians look forward to the court's judgement, which we hope will bring to an end whaling in the Southern Ocean.

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