§ 35. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is aware of the difficulties of 673 navigation caused to officers of British fishing trawlers by the present uncertainty as to the fishing waters available to them in the North Sea and further north; and if he will now circulate to all concerned a detailed statement as to their rights and liabilities for their guidance.
§ Mr. GodberMy right hon. Friend is well aware that the British fishing industry have many difficulties at the present time, and he is in close touch with the industry about all these matters.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Minister aware that this is exemplified by the unfortunate incident in which Her Majesty's destroyer "Crossbow" was involved recently, as indicated in my Question yesterday to the Civil Lord, and his Answer? Will he take steps to avoid unfortunate and expensive maritime international incidents which do great harm to the British fishing industry?
§ Mr. GodberI do not think I can usefully add to what the hon. Member was told yesterday about that incident. I assure him, however, that my right hon. Friend is very anxious to reach a lasting settlement which is satisfactory to British fishing interests.