HC Deb 08 February 1956 vol 548 c1672
56. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will take steps to issue a White Paper on the proposals of the Swiss chairman of the sub-committee of the Organisation for European Economic Co-operation which has been studying the fisheries dispute between Great Britain and Iceland.

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Anthony Nutting)

This is not possible while the confidential negotiations are continuing, but a statement will be made to the House when these negotiations are completed.

Mr. Hughes

Does the right hon. Gentleman not realise that this dispute has been dragging on far too long? Is he aware that the House is entitled to be informed on it. and that here is a basis for settlement which should be promptly discussed and disclosed to the House?

Mr. Nutting

It is precisely because I am anxious to settle the dispute and we seem at long last to be in sight of a settlement that I do not want to take action at this moment of all moments to prejudice that settlement.