§ Mr. Austin Mitchellasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) whether he or his Department was consulted by the EEC Commission on the 12 extra licences offered by Norway for EEC fishing vessels fishing Norwegian waters from 63 degrees north for June;
(2) whether the EEC Commission has made any proposals to him for increasing flexibilty in the operation of the licences 769W issued for fishing in Norwegian waters from 63 degrees north; and if he will make a statement;
(3) whether he or his Department were consulted by the EEC Commission on the 12 extra licences offered by Norway for EEC fishing vessels fishing Norwegian waters from 63 degrees north for July; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BishopThe Government have been fully involved in discussions between the Community and Norway on the possibility of a larger number of licences for EEC vessels off Northern Norway, but that would not in itself solve the problems which have arisen. However, discussions are continuing between the Community and the Norwegian Government about a more flexible licensing system.