The Representatives, Recalling Article II of the Antarctic Treaty and Recommendations VIII-13, X-7, XII-3 and XIV-3; Recognizing the knowledge of the tectonic, geochemical, climatic, glacial and biological evolution of the Antarctic region that can be obtained from exploration of sub-glacial lakes; Bearing in mind the potential irreparable risk to the unique environment of these lakes should biological or other contaminants be introduced through or as an unintended result of such exploration; Conscious of the need for wider international and interdisciplinary discussion and adequate prior research, preparation and planning of such exploration to ensure the best possible scientific results and to minimise any associated risks to the sub-glacial environment; Conscious also that planning such exploration will, in most cases, require preparation of a Comprehensive Environmental Impact Evaluation as provided for in Recommendation XIV-2 Recommend to their Governments as follows: 1 . That a moratorium be declared on any attempt at direct intrusion into sub-glacial lakes 2. That during the moratorium, they promote further research into: understanding sub-glacial lakes systems, technologies for researching the lakes without intrusion, intrusion methods which minimise real and potential risks of contamination, and investigation of alternative sites which provide information about sub-glacial lake systems and methods for their exploration 3. That during the moratorium, they encourage public education and debate on the issue The Representatives, Recalling Article II of the Antarctic Treaty and Recommendations VIII-13, X-7, XII-3 and XIV-3; Recognizing the knowledge of the tectonic, geochemical, climatic, glacial and biological evolution of the Antarctic region that can be obtained from exploration of sub-glacial lakes; Bearing in mind the potential irreparable risk to the unique environment of these lakes should biological or other contaminants be introduced through or as an unintended result of such exploration; Conscious of the need for wider international and interdisciplinary discussion and adequate prior research, preparation and planning of such exploration to ensure the best possible scientific results and to minimise any associated risks to the sub-glacial environment; Conscious also that planning such exploration will, in most cases, require preparation of a Comprehensive Environmental Impact Evaluation as provided for in Recommendation XIV-2 Recommend to their Governments as follows: 1 . That a moratorium be declared on any attempt at direct intrusion into sub-glacial lakes 2. That during the moratorium, they promote further research into: understanding sub-glacial lakes systems, technologies for researching the lakes without intrusion, intrusion methods which minimise real and potential risks of contamination, and investigation of alternative sites which provide information about sub-glacial lake systems and methods for their exploration 3. That during the moratorium, they encourage public education and debate on the issue