asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will take further steps to alleviate the position of the Scottish fishing industry.

My right hon. Friends are at present considering the case submitted by the Scottish industry for further financial assistance along with those from different parts of the United Kingdom. We shall announce our decision as soon as possible.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will introduce a sectoral, seasonal arrangement for the trawler and purse-seine fishing fleets.

I presume that the right hon. Member is referring to the quota arrangements for the pelagic fisheries later this year. Various possible arrangements, including sectoral quotas, are currently being discussed with the industry organisations which are to meet the fisheries Departments shortly to conclude these consultations. The views expressed by the industry organisations will be carefully considered before any decisions are reached.