HC Deb 06 April 1955 vol 539 cc1167-8
43. Major Wall

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is now in a position to make a statement regarding the inquiry by the Organisation for European Economic Co-operation into the Icelandic fishing dispute.

Lord John Hope

No, Sir. Since these confidential discussions are continuing, I regret that I cannot yet make any statement.

Major Wall

How long is this inquiry to last?

Lord John Hope

I think it will not last very much longer.

Mr. Hector Hughes

Is not the present state of affairs inflicting great loss on the British fishing industry, and will the Minister use his utmost endeavours to resolve the outstanding problems at the earliest possible moment?

Lord John Hope

I can assure the hon. and learned Gentleman that no time at all is being wasted; but the matter is very difficult.