§ 33 and 34. Mr. G. Straussasked the Minister of Economic Warfare (1) whether the British-Norwegian contraband agreement permits fish caught by the Norwegian fishing fleet in the North Sea and the Arctic to be delivered to Germany;
189 (2) whether the Government has taken any steps to prevent fish caught by Belgian and Dutch fishing vessels outside their territorial waters from reaching Germany?
§ Mr. CrossI regret that for the reasons explained in my reply to the hon. Member for Romford (Mr. Parker) on 20th February, I am not in a position to reveal the terms of war trade agreements concluded or being negotiated with neutral Powers. The point to which the hon. Member has drawn attention has, of course, been borne in mind during the discussions with the Norwegian, Belgian and Netherlands Governments.
§ Mr. StraussCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether at the present time we permit fish caught by these neutral boats to be delivered to Germany?
§ Mr. CrossI think that, if I were to make known details of that kind, I should be revealing to the Germans the arrangements we have made with neutral countries.
§ Mr. StraussThe right hon. Gèntleman will appreciate that it is important that the House should know what holes there are in the blockade, and what is happening in connection with these matters?