§ 34. Mr. Sproatasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what further representations he has received from the Scottish inshore fishing industry regarding current negotiations with the European Economic Community.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithMy right hon. Friends the Secretary of State and the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster received a deputation from the Scottish inshore fishermen's associations on 15th December.
§ Mr. SproatWhile my hon. Friend may not have received any further representations in the meantime, that does not mean that the inshore fishing industry is satisfied. On the contrary, it believes that the present E.E.C. plans would not merely cause the industry great difficulty but would mean its death within a couple of years. May we be given specific examples of the care that is being taken, rather than general assurances?
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithI am entirely aware of the concern that is felt within the inshore fishing industry and I repeat my assurance that we have entirely reserved our position about fisheries. I am sure that my hon. Friend will not expect me to declare our negotiating position in advance while these difficult negotiations are going on.
§ Mr. EadieIs the hon. Gentleman aware that there is resentment growing in Scotland about the possible effects of our joining the E.E.C.? Will he seek to obtain Scottish opinion not only about the fishing industry but about, for example, the coal and steel industries in relation to the future of the people of Scotland should we join the Community?
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithThe Question relates to fishing. I trust that the hon. Gentleman heard me twice give an assurance about our negotiating position in relation to fisheries. I trust that he is not so naive as to think that we could declare the exact details of our negotiating position in advance.
§ Mr. Clark HutchisonDoes my hon. Friend realise that the best way to solve this difficulty and at the same time to give protection to our fishing industry would be to keep out of the Common Market altogether and to abandon the negotiations?
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithYes. Another way is to negotiate.