HC Deb 22 July 1957 vol 574 cc13-5
22. Mr. Grimond

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied that present restrictions on the catch of whales will prevent such a slaughter as to put an end to the industry if not to the whale.

Mr. Amory

I am guided by the collective judgment of the International Whaling Commission, which is responsible under the International Whaling Convention of 1946 for the adoption, subject to the agreement of member Governments, of the necessary measures for the conservation of the whale stocks.

Mr. Grimond

While appreciating what the Minister says, is he aware that there is considerable anxiety that, with the increase in whaling fleets owned by foreign countries, the restrictions will not he obeyed? Is he aware that if the stock of whales is reduced to a level at which whale catching becomes uncommercial, there will be a very serious effect on employment in my constituency and in other places?

Mr. Amory

I agree that it is very important that these agreements should he adhered to, and I think that the member countries are aware of that. As a member of the international body concerned, we are in close touch with the situation and are watching that aspect.

23. Mr. Grimond

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what progress has been made in finding a humane killer for whales.

Mr. Amory

I am informed much experimental work is proceeding but that a fully satisfactory alternative to the conventional method of killing whales has not yet been evolved.

Mr. Grimond

Is the Minister aware that, whatever the cruelty to horses and cattle, the animal which suffers the most appalling cruelties today is the whale? Its method of slaughter is ghastly. Will he give some assurance that if a more humane way of killing it can be found, he will seek with other countries some method of enforcing the use of that humane method?

Mr. Amory

Any development in the direction of more humane methods of killing whales will receive my strong support.