The debate over whaling between Japan and Australia may soon escalate into legal action.

Despite an international moratorium on commercial hunting since 1986, Japan continues to kill hundreds of whales each year under a loophole that allows whaling in the name of research.

Australia wants scientific whaling to stop and told Japan's foreign minister over the weekend that it would pursue legal action with the International Whaling Commission, if Japan doesn't stop all culling by this November.

Japan says the practice within the boundaries of the law and that Australia's stance is unfortunate.

[Hirofumi Hirano, Chief Cabinet Secretary]:
"Research whaling does not infringe the international accords and it's conducted according to the agreements. Instead of solving the matter taking legal action, it's very important to reach an understanding on the diplomatic side."

Japan says if court action does become a reality, it will represent its own case to the I.W.C.

Spokesmen for both countries stress the issue will not affect their important strategic relationship.