asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps will be taken to enable new fishing vessels built in Scotland to qualify for European agricultural guidance and guarantee fund grants.

There is at present no Community scheme in operation under which application can be made for EAGGF aid towards new fishing vessels. I cannot say at this stage whether such a scheme will operate for 1980 or what its conditions might be. Should a scheme be introduced, my Department would as usual give applicants all possible help by liaising with the EEC Commission.