EU appeals to Japan over whale hunt

The European Union appealed to Japan to call off a hunt for around 1,000 whales, saying it would put in jeopardy the long-term survival of some species in Antarctic waters.

“The European Commission urges Japan to reconsider its decision and stop the hunt,” said a statement from the EU’s executive arm.

It said the departure of the whaling fleet from Japan on Sunday was “all the more alarming” because it planned to catch humpback and fin whales, which are classified as “endangered” and “vulnerable” by the World Conservation Union.