press release from the office of Richard Corbett MEP

28 October 2004

Norway announces 'seal-killing holidays'

Richard Corbett, Labour MEP for Yorkshire and the Humber, has condemned the Norwegian government's recent decision to launch seal-culling holidays.

In a desperate attempt to revive its declining tourist industry, Norway intends to attract amateur enthusiasts to help meet the government quota of 2100 authorised killings per year.

Speaking in Strasbourg, Richard said:

"Seal-hunting is a cruel and unnecessary 'sport'. We have to stand firm against this barbarity, especially when the lives of baby seals are concerned."

The European Commission has responded to Richard's concerns by assuring him that they will "follow the development of seal hunting in Norway to determine if there is any detrimental impact on the seal population in the EU".

Richard highlighted the repercussions of such a tasteless move:

"This new 'sport' will only damage Norway's image abroad and repel tourists.

"Norway still lives under the shadow of guilt following world-wide criticism engendered by images of blood-soaked baby seals, brutally killed for their soft fur. It cannot afford to send out negative messages, especially in terms of its animal welfare policy.

"The European Parliament has a proud record of success in campaigning against the seal cull, especially in Canada. We are not going to let this happen on Europe's doorstep."

More information

Contact Toby Wardman, Press & Communications Officer for Richard Corbett MEP

phone 0113 245 8987

e-mail toby@richardcorbett.org.uk