Fed: Weather prevented boarding of Viarsa: Macdonald = 2

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Fed: Weather prevented boarding of Viarsa: Macdonald = 2

Customs Minister Chris Ellison said the vessels involved in the chase were about 1800nautical miles (3,335km) west-south-west of Cape Town.

"The weather conditions have turned extremely severe, with the four vessels encounteringsnow storms and the full impact of the Roaring Forties (winds)," Senator Ellison saidin a statement.

"The South African polar ice-breaker SA Agulhas is still proceeding to the scene tooffer additional support as required."

Senator Ellison said the Uruguayan government had been kept up to date about the progressof the chase.

"The Australian government is continuing to work with Uruguay to bring the vessel toaccount. In our view, this includes ensuring the Viarsa complies with all instructionsfrom Australian authorities," he said.

Earlier in the chase, the Southern Supporter and the Viarsa travelled through packice in Antarctic waters.

The Southern Supporter radioed the Viarsa instructions about how to avoid icebergs.

The chase has covered more than 4000 nautical miles, and has been continuing for 20 days.

AAP pj/ak/jlw/

KEYWORD: TOOTHFISH AUST 2 CANBERRA