§ 39. Sir ARTHUR FELLasked the Minister of National Service if his attention has been directed to the calling-up notices now being served on skippers and engine drivers of steam drifters employed in the herring fishing industry; if it is intended that these notices shall be acted on; if so, is he aware of the result this must have on the authumn herring fishing on the East Coast and the many thousands of tons of fish food involved; and if, in any case, the calling up of these essential men can be postponed until December, when this fishing season ends on the East Coast?
§ Sir A. GEDDESI am aware that some skippers are being called up, but I was not aware that any enginemen had received calling-up notices. These men are dealt with as fishermen, and, as such, can enrol in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, Y Section, and continue in civil life until their services are required in the Navy. Men who have not so enrolled, and are called up for service, have an opportunity of joining the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, Y Section, instead of being posted to the Army or Royal Air Force. I know that every endeavour is made by the Admiralty, in consultation with the Fishery Departments, to avoid dislocation of the fishing industry, so far as is com- 479 patible with the minimum requirements of the naval service. It must be remembered that the men called up for service on mine-sweepers and patrol vessels perform most essential service in helping to ensure the national food supply.
§ Sir A. FELLMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman if the suggestion contained in the last part of the question could be especially considered?
§ Sir A. GEDDESYes, certainly; that is a point which is being most carefully watched.