HC Deb 23 March 1955 vol 538 cc188-9W
68. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will define the circumstances in which British trawlers are permitted by the Icelandic Government to seek refuge from storm in Icelandic waters and Icelandic ports.

Mr. Turton

Under Article III of an Icelandic law of 1st July, 1922,foreign fishermen prosecuting fishing outside Icelandic territorial waters are allowed to seek shelter in coasts on account of storm or bad weather. Article II of a law of 18th May, 1920, provides that if a steam trawler is found in territorial waters, all the fishing gear must be stowed away on board. The Icelandic Government apply this rule to all waters within the fishery limits unilaterally imposed by them in 1952.