To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when he last made representations to the Japanese Government concerning its research whaling agreements; what representations he has made to them about a total ban on whaling; and if he will make a statement.

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs raised the Japanese scientific research whaling programme with Foreign Minister Nakayama on 12 January, as did my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister with Prime Minister Kaifu. The Japanese Government are well aware of our views on whaling.