Pollution of oceans threatens whale stocks

THEY are the largest and most spectacular mammals on earth, but commercial slaughter and the continued pollution of the oceans is threatening the future of whales.

On the eve of the annual meeting of the International Whaling Commission, wildlife campaigners, led by the Environmental Investigation Agency (IEA), say the contamination of the seas must be addressed immediately.

But there are fears the conference could be dominated by pro-whaling member countries that want the resumption of commercial killing.