The referendum No campaign this morning urged eligible voters to cast their vote next Saturday, and those who still have to pick up their voting documents to do so.

Campaign spokesman Mark Sultana called for a No vote to protect birds and allow them to breed during Spring.

A No vote would mean more birds would breed and fly over Malta and the people would be better able to enjoy the countryside, he said during an event in Valletta.

Some 10 per cent of voting documents still have to be collected. Collection can be made in police stations (or local councils where there are no police stations) up to today at 10 p.m. and then from the Electoral Commission at the former trade fair grounds in Naxxar up to Thursday evening.

Campaign spokeswoman Moira Delia said everybody knew what the reality of Spring hunting was. “It is horrible, cruel and retrograde. For the sake of future generations, it is important to vote No.”

Mr Sultana said Malta was currently the only country which allowed the hunting of migrating birds in Spring.

Spokesman Saviour Balzan insisted that the referendum would not affect other pastimes.