§ 45. Mr. Edward Evansasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that the British trawler "Churchill," out of Grimsby, was arrested on 29th March by the Icelandic authorities for alleged illegal trawling in prohibited waters; and whether he will ensure that the interests of the captain and of the owners are adequately safeguarded.
§ Lord John HopeYes, Sir; this case, in which an appeal is pending against the judgment of an Icelandic court on 31st March, is being followed closely.
§ Mr. EvansDoes the Minister share my distress and anxiety that a vessel with such a distinguished name should be held under duress? What is the amount of the fines imposed on British trawlers since the imposition of the fishing limits by the Icelandic Government? Has it not been reported to be as much as £30,000?
§ Lord John HopeNo, Sir. The fine imposed was about £1,500 with costs, and confiscation of the catch and the gear.
§ Mr. EvansI imagine that the Minister has misunderstood my question. I asked how much money had been imposed upon British trawlers since the fishing limits were imposed. and the Minister gave me the figure of the fine imposed on the "Churchill".
§ Lord John HopeI did misunderstand the hon. Gentleman's question. I would like notice of it.