HC Deb 26 March 1936 vol 310 cc1413-4
83. Mr. LOGAN

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction and dislocation of trade in North Shields and Hull owing to the Herring Board Order about kippers; and is he now able to state whether the board will rescind the Order?

Mr. ELLIOT

I am informed that the board after further consideration of the views of all the parties affected have decided to modify the direction as regards the period during which it shall have effect. The operative period will now be from 27th April to 16th May, inclusive, instead of from 15th April to 12th May, inclusive. A revised direction is being issued accordingly.

Mr. LOGAN

Has the right hon. Gentleman received any information from the board in regard to what the position will be next year? The delegation were given to understand that a decision would be made in regard to this matter.

Mr. ELLIOT

I am afraid that I cannot speak as to the arrangements next year. The board will be decided by the experience of this year.

Mr. LOGAN

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that the board agreed that 1,000 men would be out of employment through this Order, which is causing great distress?

Mr. ELLIOT

I have read the report of the deputation which the hon. Member brought to the Department very carefully, and was interested to find the opinion of the delegates themselves as to whether the direction should or should not be modified.

Mr. LOGAN

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that it was agreed that 1,000 men were unemployed?