HC Deb 04 April 1917 vol 92 cc1264-5
42. Mr. GINNELL

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food, having regard to the value of fresh fish as food, the fact that the best fishing season is now opening, and the freedom of the West Coast of Ireland from difficulties which beset the industry elsewhere, whether he will take immediate steps to remedy two defects now threatening the industry there by having rapid transport established between the Aran Isles and other fishing points on the West Coast and the English markets and having the empty boxes returned, which the railway companies now refuse to do, or sending the fishermen an adequate supply of boxes in advance?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of FOOD CONTROL (Captain Bathurst)

I will confer with my right hon. Friend the Chief Secretary for Ireland on the matter referred to in the question.

Mr. GIN NELL

is the hon. Gentleman not in a position to go further than that in this important matter?

Captain BATHURST

No Sir, I cannot at the present time. The matter is being investigated in conjunction with the Irish Fisheries Department. As regards the empty boxes that has been taken up by the Fish Food Committee with the Railway Executive Committee.

Mr. GINNELL

Will the hon. Gentleman be able to let me have a reply during the Recess?

Captain BATHURST

No, Sir, I am afraid I cannot.

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