HC Deb 11 June 1958 vol 589 cc203-5
40. Mr. E. Fletcher

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what steps he is taking with regard to the intention announced by the Icelandic Government to impose Icelandic control of all fishing within a 12-mile limit.

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

I would refer the hon. Member to the Declaration published by Her Majesty's Government on 4th June, in which stress was laid on our desire for negotiations with the Icelandic Government. Her Majesty's Government have noted that the Icelandic Government's Declaration of 1st June refers to the Icelandic Government's desire to work for understanding and recognition of the legality of, and necessity for, the extension of their fishery limits. They hope that this indicates a desire for negotiations on the part of the Icelandic Government.

Mr. Fletcher

May we take it from that that Her Majesty's Government will not accept any unilateral change in the present position in international law and will endeavour to arrange a direct conference with the Icelandic Government, or propose a meeting of all maritime Powers directly interested in the matter?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

Of course we cannot accept the unilateral declaration as changing the present state of international law. If Iceland were to agree to take part in a regional conference such as that proposed by the Danish Government, for instance, that would probably be the best method of solving fishing problems around Iceland, but we shall be ready to consider any suggestions for tackling the problems.

Mr. Wall

Does my right hon. Friend recognise that there is not much time to call a conference of friendly Governments, as the Icelandic decree is timed for 30th June? Will he, therefore, have consultations as quickly as possible with other Governments interested in the subject to endeavour to summon a conference before that date?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

As I understand it, although nominally effective from the end of June, the Icelandic Government's declaration would not actually affect their territorial waters until September, so there is a little more time. We recognise that there is a very urgent need for early negotiations and we hope to get them going this month.

Mr. Younger

Does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that, although it may be true that there is some kind of waiting period until September, things may get more difficult after the end of June? He has not suggested to the House that Her Majesty's Government are taking any new initiatives in this matter. He referred to the Danish Government's initiative and he said that he was willing to accept suggestions. May we take it that Her Majesty's Government are actively working for the earliest possible conference?

Mr. Ormbsy-Gore

We are certainly actively working for the earliest possible conference, but we have to consider which country would be the best to call together such a conference. This is a matter which we must bear in mind.