§ Mr. Laurance Reedasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has received from the Norwegian Government concerning the dumping of industrial wastes in the North Sea by British companies; and what representations he proposes to make to them about the dumping of chemical wastes by Norwegian vessels in the waters overlying United Kingdom Continental Shelf territory.
Mr. Anthony HoyleOn 15th April the Norwegian Government asked for information about the proposed dumping of waste in the North Sea by the British firm, John Hudson & Co. Ltd. They have been told that applications from this firm are now being considered by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. In assessing such applications care is taken to avoid possible harm to fisheries and the marine environment generally.
We are issuing invitations to North Sea riparian States to take part in exploratory talks in London on 11th June at which the whole question of North Sea pollution will be discussed, including the dumping of waste whether by British, Norwegian and other vessels.