"Congressional Panel Approves Metcalf Resolution Opposing Gray Whale Hunt. - Congress of the United States, House of Representatives -

Washington, D.C. -- A resolution expressing opposition to the Makah Tribe's proposal to hunt gray whales was unanimously approved Wednesday by the House of representatives Committee on Resources.

The measure was introduced by Congressmen Jack Metcalf (R-Langley) and George Miller (D-California), the ranking minority member on the Resources Committee.

The International Whaling Commission, meeting in Aberdeen, Scotland this week, is considering a request by Makah Tribe to kill five gray whales a year. The plan is supported by the U.S. Delegation to the IWC, led by National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration (NOAA) head D. James Baker.

"With this Sense of the Resources Committee resolution, we're saying that we believe the gray whale should be protected, not slaughtered," said Metcalf, "We're sending a strong message to the IWC that we don't agree with the Clinton Administration on this issue."

The resolution points out that gray whale was removed from the endangered species list only two years ago.

"It's very significant that seven tribal elders oppose this request," said Metcalf. "They rightfully fear that the hunt will become a commercial enterprise. In fact, the Makah Tribe's leaders have been seeking the counsel of whalers from Japan and Norway. Currently, in Japan, one gray whale is worth $1 million."

The resolution also expresses concern that "13 native groups in Canada have indicated their intention to resume whaling if the Makah Tribe hunts the gray whale."

"The Makah Tribal leaders say they want to kill only five whales a year, but the question is: where would it stop, once it started?" said Metcalf.

RESOLUTION INTRODUCED BY REP. METCALF (WA) AND REP. MILLER (CA)

SENSE OF THE COMMITTEE ON RESOURCES: STRONG OPPOSITION TO THE ADMINISTRATION'S DECISION TO SUPPORT WHALE HUNTING

Whereas, the Makah tribe in Washington state has announced its intention to hunt the gray whale;

Whereas, the gray whale was removed from the endangered species list only two years ago;

Whereas, 13 native groups in Canada have indicated their intention to resume whaling if the Makah Tribe hunts the gray whale;

Whereas, seven elders of the Makah Tribe strongly oppose the proposal and fear the hunt will become a commercial enterprise;

Whereas, the U.S. delegation to the International Whaling Commission, appointed by the President, supports the plan to kill gray whales;

It is the Sense of the Committee on Resources that the gray whale should be protected and that the position taken by the U.S. delegation at the Whaling Conference is strongly opposed by the Committee on Resources.

passed unanimously 6/26 at 1:30 PM