§ Mr. SalmondTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what assessment has been made on the impact on the Scottish fishing industry of the interruption of supplies bound for the Spanish market as a result of planned industrial action by Spanish customs officers;
(2) what discussions he has had with the Scottish Fish Merchants Association on the planned industrial action by Spanish customs officers.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythThe Spanish market is a very important outlet for Scottish fish and shellfish and it would be of some concern if the trade with Spain were to be disrupted. For the moment, industrial action by Spanish customs agents appears to be sporadic with notice of their intentions being given in advance. As yet there have been no representations from Scottish fish processing sources on the matter. We are continuing to monitor the situation.