HC Deb 11 April 1973 vol 854 cc1321-2
27. Mr. McNamara

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a further statement on the Icelandic fishing dispute.

Sir Alec Douglas-Home

We are now in touch with the Icelandic Government with a view to agreeing a mutually convenient date after Easter for the resumption of ministerial talks.

Mr. McNamara

Have the Icelandic Government said that they will have the talks at ministerial level after Easter, or are the officials still merely fishing around to try to find suitable items for an agenda to make an agreement? What has been the Icelandic Government's reaction to the repeated protests made by our ambassador about the harassment of our trawlers in the disputed waters?

Sir Alec Douglas-Home

I hope to receive an answer tomorrow about dates that I have proposed for ministerial talks towards the end of the month. I hope that the Icelanders will accept that ministerial talks are necessary. Allies should talk, and not confront each other. We have received no clear assurances that there will not be harassment.

Mr. W. H. K. Baker

Has my right hon. Friend had any recent consultation with the West German Government after their consultations with the Icelandic Government? Have any consultations taken place between the United Kingdom Government and the Russian Government?

Sir Alec Douglas-Home

We are in almost daily touch with the German Government on the matter. There is no immediate problem demanding urgent consideration with the Government of the Soviet Union, but they are aware of our position.

Mr. James Johnson

As the safety and welfare of our fishermen are equally dear to both sides of the House, this is not a party issue. The Opposition have therefore consistently backed the Government's policy, and we shall continue to do so. Did not the Icelanders wish to come before Easter? Is it not possible for the right hon. Gentleman to see them in London during the week beginning 30th April?

Sir Alec Douglas-Home

I will not say exactly what I have proposed, but the hon. Gentleman is not far off the dates I have suggested.