HC Deb 18 November 1963 vol 684 cc619-20
31. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on the terms of settlement of the dispute between the Aberdeen trawler "Milwood" and the Government of Iceland and other Icelandic authorities, and on the result of the relevant proceedings in the Icelandic courts of law; and what questions officially remain outstanding.

Mr. P. Thomas

On 26th August, the Reykjavik Lower Court released the "Milwood" in return for a guarantee of about £10,000 from the owners. The court proceedings against the skipper, which had been adjourned on 2nd September and 29th October, were resumed on 7th November. They were again adjourned after the public prosecutor had undertaken to study written documents submitted by defence counsel. It is not yet known when the hearing will be resumed.

Mr. Hughes

Does the hon. Gentleman realise that at least two separate issues were being tried, one against the skipper and one against the owner? Will he say what assistance was given to the accused through the Icelandic court with a view to seeing that justice was done in both cases?

Mr. Thomas

As the hon. and learned Member knows, the skipper did not return to Iceland to face his trial. As he also knows, the matter is at the moment sub judice and I am sure that he will not wish me to make any remarks about the course of the trial.