HC Deb 11 February 1963 vol 671 cc913-4
7. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Lord Privy Seal if he will publish the terms of the agreement concluded between the Danish Government and Her Majesty's Government regarding the "Red Crusader" incident; to what extent the Faroe and Aberdeen fishing interests, respectively, were specifically catered for in this agreement; and if he is satisfied that the agreement will further harmony between the fishing fleets involved.

Mr. P. Thomas

I gave the terms of this settlement to the House on 23rd January. The Faroese Authorities and the owners of the trawler were consulted by their respective Governments. I am satisfied that this settlement will contribute to harmony in the area.

Mr. Hughes

Does the Minister realise that he gave the information only in sketchy terms and did not give the full details, and that the unhappy circumstances in which the agreement arose and its consequences provide a splendid opportunity of bringing together three fishing nations which have had unhappy relations? The nations to which I refer are Great Britain, Denmark and the Fames, and Finland. There is now a splendid opportunity of bringing them together and providing peace and harmony among the fishing interests in the North Sea?

Mr. Thomas

The parties mentioned by the hon. and learned Member are in close touch and discussions on the subject of British fishery interests in the Faroes are soon to open. Obviously, I cannot anticipate what might take place.

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