§ 41. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he, in conjunction with foreign Governments, has yet completed his study of, and discussions concerning, the repercussions upon the British fishing industry of the decision, adverse to Britain, in December, 1951, of the International Court of Justice at The Hague; if he is aware of the continuing loss and damage which the results flowing from this decision are having on the British fishing industry; and if he will make a statement indicating the results of the study and discussions.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Douglas Dodds-Parker)As I informed the hon. and learned Gentleman on 27th January, Her Majesty's Government regard our dispute with Norway about the areas which were the subject of The Hague Court's judgment of 18th December, 1951, as now settled. I am aware that the consequences of the Court's decision have been prejudicial to the Britishfishing industry, but it would be inappropriate to discuss that decision with foreign Governments. The possible implications of the Court's decision have been carefully studied by Her Majesty's Government and I would refer the hon. and learned Gentleman to the detailed statement made by my right hon. and learned Friend the Minister of State on 14th December, 1953.
§ Mr. HughesIn view of the complete and abject failure of the Government to protect British interests in this matter, does not the Minister think it rather 1181 absurd to say that it is inadvisable to invite a conference of the powers involved? Surely that is the appropriate way of solving the outstanding problems? Will he change his mind about this and summon such a conference?
§ Mr. Dodds-ParkerI am staggered that the hon. and learned Member, who is a lawyer, can use such words about the findings of the International Court. If we accept the rule of law in the world, as we on this side of the House do accept it, we must from time to time accept the adverse decisions of the Court.