HC Deb 05 May 1930 vol 238 cc612-3
31. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what arrangements have been come to with regard to British vessels fishing off the Murmansk coast arising out of the Russian trade agreement; and what distance from the coast is claimed by the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics as territorial waters?

Mr. HENDERSON

A Temporary Fisheries Agreement, distinct and separate from the Temporary Commercial Agreement, is at present under negotiation with the Soviet Government in accordance with the provisions of the Protocol of 3rd October last. The instrument, on the terms of which a substantial measure of agreement has already been reached, will deal, inter alia, with the point mentioned in the second part of the question. The hon. and gallant Member will, however, appreciate my inability to enter into details at this stage.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Can the right hon. Gentleman assure the fishing industry that he will not recognise any extension of the three-mile limit?

Mr. HENDERSON

I have already answered that I cannot go into details at this moment. The House will have a full opportunity of discussing the matter when the Treaty comes up for ratification.