HC Deb 02 April 1969 vol 781 cc479-80
44. Mr. Wall

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the effects on the British fishing industry of the breakdown of European Free Trade Association talks on frozen fillets.

Mr. James Hoy

Since there was in these talks no agreement on the early removal of the tariff, the British fishing industry will continue to enjoy the measure of protection which it affords.

Mr. Wall

Will the Minister say whether the annexe to the Stockholm Agreement will be discussed with our E.F.T.A. partners? I understand that this has to be done before next year.

Mr. Hoy

Yes. As I announced on an earlier occasion, the programme or régime for 1970 must be discussed before that time arrives. The discussion will take place later in the year.

Mr. Hector Hughes

In connection with the Minister's reply to the last two Questions, will he have regard to the necessity of giving better protection to the British fishing fleet against poaching by foreign trawlers?

Mr. Hoy

It can hardly be said that that supplementary question arises from the two preceding Questions, but I assure my hon. and learned Friend that we do all we can to give the greatest protection to our fishing fleets.