Antarctic discipline

Press, 12 February 1986, Page 20

Antarctic discipline

Sir, —Private expeditions have as much (or as little) right as the treaty nations to be in Antarctica. Despite protestations about disrupted research, these programmes are run now as much for political reasons to ensure a national presence and excuse to “control” Antarctica as for purely scientific knowledge. Regulations are essential to protect the fragile environment alike from private expeditions and activities of the Powers themselves. A notable breach by France recently drew no disciplinary response. However, the treaty has so far served Antarctica well. The tragedy is that instead of strengthening it to prevent exploitation, the Powers are intent on diluting it to make this possible. Their credibility as protectors of the continent for all has been destroyed by the determination to protect only a right of exploitation for themselves. They fuss now about the minor presence of Greenpeace; they hope one day to welcome major corporations like Exxon. — Yours, etc., ERIC BENNETT. Wellington, February 9, 1986.