asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement regarding the loss of the fishing trawler "Ian Fleming" of St. Andrew's Dock, Hull, off the Norwegian coast on Christmas Day 1973.

The fishing vessel "Ian Fleming" struck the coastline at Hammer-fest, Norway, on the morning of 25th December 1973 and subsequently foundered. I have ordered a preliminary inquiry into this casualty under Section 465 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1894. I am sure the House would wish to join me in offering sympathy to the relatives and friends of the three members of the crew who lost their lives in this tragic occurrence.