Australia's Ban On Super-trawler in Doubt:
Australia's hopes of blocking a controversial super-trawler from fishing in its waters looked uncertain with the opposition speaking out against the move and a key independent lawmaker expressing reservations.
Environment Minister Tony Burke has introduced legislation to prevent the Dutch-owned FV Margiris, recently reflagged as the Abel Tasman, from fishing in Australia until new scientific research into its impact can be carried out.
It follows a community backlash against the 9,500-tonne, 143-meter (469-foot) trawler led by fishermen and conservation groups concerned about over-fishing and bycatch of other creatures in its huge nets.
But the conservative Liberal/National opposition on Wednesday said it would not support the amendments to Australia's environmental protection and conservation laws, describing them as a "Trojan horse operation."
Burke said the opposition's position meant it was now "not clear whether the bill will pass parliament."
