§ 35. Major ENTWISTLEasked the Prime Minister whether the import duties on British fish entering France have been 13 or are about to be considerably raised and that this will cause the French market to be closed to the British fishing industry, with consequent unemployment in the latter industry; and what steps the Government proposes to take to secure the interests of our fishing industry in this matter?
The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Sir Arthur Boscawen)I have been asked to reply. Import duties on British fish entering France have not been increased, but the French Government is being strongly pressed by the trawler owners to increase them. The fish merchants in France are strongly opposed to any increase. The matter is one which rests with the French Government who are well aware of the views of British fishing interests.
§ Major ENTWISTLEAre we to understand there is no proposal to increase this? The trade has been informed that it is going to be increased by 55 francs per 100 kilos?
Sir A. BOSCAWENI have said the French Government are being pressed by the French trawler owners to increase the duty, but the matter has not yet been Settled.
§ Major ENTWISTLEIf this proposal is made, will the British Government make strong representations to the French Government that it should not be carried out?
Dr. MURRAYHow can the Government do so when this is merely a reprisal for the not very bright example set by Coalition legislation? [HON. MEMBERS: "The Safeguarding of Industries Act!"]