To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has had with the Scottish Pelagic Fishermen's Association on the withdrawal of the Export Credits Guarantee Department cover on trade with the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.

My noble Friend the Minister for Fisheries in Scotland has discussed the matter with the Scottish Pelagic Fishermen's Association, and is aware of the concerns of others in the pelagic industry in Scotland, regarding changes in the ECGD's arrangements covering trade with the USSR. My noble Friend is looking into the matter on their behalf and will write to the hon. Member when he has completed his inquiries.