§ 23. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the present stage of the inquiry by the Organisation for European Economic Co-operation into the Icelandic fishing dispute.
§ 24. Major Wallasked 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 HopeThe discussions at the Organisation for European Economic Co-operation are still continuing. A meeting is, in fact, being held today.
§ Mr. HughesDoes the Minister realise that this matter has remained unsettled far too long? Will he specify what steps he is taking to have this very important matter heard and determined?
§ Lord John HopeWhen the Commission concludes its work, the Chairman of the Group will report to the O.E.E.C. Ministerial Council. I cannot say when that will be done, but it should not be far ahead.
§ Major WallMay I congratulate my hon. Friend—[HON. MEMBERS: "No."] —on the memorandum prepared by his Department setting out this dispute, which shows quite clearly where the blame lies, and ask him to continue to press the Icelandic Government, citing, as an example of what negotiations can achieve, the recent agreement with Denmark in regard to fishing in the Faroes?
§ Mr. de FreitasWhat is the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe doing about this matter, which was referred to the Council of Europe about nine or ten months ago?
§ Lord John HopeAs the hon. Gentleman knows, the O.E.E.C. group was the method decided upon for the attack upon this problem, and I think it is much better to wait until we see what happens there. As far as my hon. and gallant Friend's supplementary question goes, I am grateful to him for reminding us of what can be done by sensible and peaceful negotiation.