Whaling 'may resume'

The international ban on commercial whaling may soon be lifted.

Environmental campaigners say an international meeting has begun clearing the way for hunting to resume.

Members of the International Whaling Commission could lift the 15-year ban this July.

The meeting took place in Monaco and set out to draw up conditions which would allow commercial hunting.

Under the Revised Management Scheme inspection teams would ensure catch limits aren't exceeded.

The IWC said: "Progress was made in several areas, but some fundamental differences remain."

However, Sandra Altherr, of the environmental group Pro Wildlife, says Japan and Norway opposed several key issues.

She said: "The majority is for the RMS so it will probably be passed."