HC Deb 20 June 1961 vol 642 c1148
9. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will now give details of the incident when last week a Danish frigate fired on the unarmed fishing vessel "Red Crusader", which he discussed with representatives of the Admiralty, the Lord Privy Seal and representatives of the Danish Government.

Mr. Leburn

There is nothing material I can add to the details of the incident given by my right hon. Friend the Lord Privy Seal on 31st May; and, as he has since announced, Her Majesty's Government are in touch with the Danish Government about their proposal that there should be an impartial inquiry into the whole incident.

Mr. Hughes

Does the Minister not realise that that Answer is entirely too vague about this very important matter to the fishing industry in Scotland? As the Secretary of State has had, or should have had, discussions with the Admiralty, the Lord Privy Seal and the Danish Government, does not the hon. Gentleman realise that it is undemocratic and wrong to keep secret the facts of this matter? Will he repair the damage that he has done in this way?

Mr. Leburn

There have been a great many discussions, but, clearly, there are many matters in dispute. While the question of an inquiry is pending, I should prefer not to comment on any of these matters.