§ 43. Major McKENZIE WOODasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is now in a position to make a statement regarding the progress made with the negotiations to find a solution of the difficulties created by the privileged position enjoyed by foreign over British trawlers in the Moray Firth?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Mr. Westwood)I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the reply given to his question on the 23rd of June. Since that date my right hon. Friend has had further consultations 1904 with his colleagues in other Departments, but he is unable to make any further statement at present.
§ Major WOODCan the hon. Gentleman give an idea when his right hon. Friend will be able to make a statement; and is he aware that the fishermen are very desirous of knowing at the earliest possible moment what is likely to be their position?
§ Mr. WESTWOODI can assure the hon. and gallant Member that no undue delay will take place in coming to a conclusion upon what is a very complicated question.
§ Major WOODIs the hon. Gentleman aware that his right hon. Friend has been considering this matter for over two years; and is it not now time that some definite statement was made?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONCan the hon. Member tell the House which Department is the cause of the delay?
§ Mr. WESTWOODI am afraid that I can add nothing to the answer that I have already given.