§ 8. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the new regulations restricting the import of monk fish into Italy; that the operation of these new regulations was suspended until 1st January, 1955; that the present uncertainty is prejudicial to the Aberdeen fish industry; and if he will make a statement on the present position of this matter and the further representations which he is making.
§ Mr. P. ThorneycroftYes, Sir. The Italian authorities are still considering the representations already made on this subject, but meanwhile the application of the regulations has been further suspended until 1st March. I realise that this creates uncertainty for the Aberdeen fish industry, and the matter will be raised again in trade talks with the Italian authorities due to take place early in February.
§ Mr. HughesWhile thanking the Minister for his efforts up to date, may I ask him whether he realises that this is a very grave interference with an important and lucrative Scottish export industry, and will he continue to press the Italian Government to abandon the regulations altogether?