§ 10. Major MACKENZIE WOODasked the Minister of Labour the result of his inquiries into the position of the Scottish herring industry; and whether he is taking any steps to deal with unemployment in that industry?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAMy inquiries indicate, I regret to say, that the prospects of employment in the near future are unfavourable. I doubt whether there are any special steps which the Government can take to assist the industry, but I am in communication with my right hon. Friends the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries and the Secretary for Scotland in the matter.
§ Major WOODIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the unemployment and prospects of unemployment in this industry are probably the result of the Government policy towards Russia and particularly of the passing of the German Reparation Bill which has stopped all trade with Germany?
Dr. MURRAYIs it the fact that the Ministry are putting great difficulties in the way of workers in the herring fishing industry—both men and women—obtaining the unemployment benefit, and will he instruct the local centres to deal more promptly with those who apply?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAIn reply to the first question, that is really a matter for argument which I cannot answer in the time at my disposal. In reply to the hon. Member for Ross and Cromarty, I have to say that the Unemployment Insurance benefit is administered under the Act, and if he knows of any case in which he thinks 125 justice has not been done I shall be very happy to look into it if he will send particulars to me.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODWill the right hon. Gentleman argue this matter with his colleagues in the Cabinet?
Dr. MURRAYAre the local exchanges not refusing the benefit on the ground that these people are seasonal workers and that there is no such work for them at this time of the year?
§ Dr. MACNAMARATheir case is governed by the terms of the Act. If the hon. Member sends me any case of hardship, I shall be glad, as I have said, to look into it.