HC Deb 09 December 1925 vol 189 cc441-2
44. Mrs. PHILIPSON

asked the Minister of Labour whether the salmon fishers of Berwick-on-Tweed as a class are auto- matically refused extended benefit or whether individual cases are considered on their merits?

Mr. BETTERTON

Each case is considered on its merits. Generally speaking, the workers in question are found to be seasonal workers whose season does not extend over 10 months of the year and who do no other insurable work. There are some cases, however, where it is shown that there are substantial periods of insurable employment between the seasons and a number of individual cases have been allowed on this ground.

Mrs. PHILIPSON

Will the hon. Gentleman, knowing the distress in which many of the fishermen are placed, owing to bad weather conditions and other causes, see that their cases are given the most sympathetic and fullest consideration?

Mr. BETTERTON

I ought to say on behalf of my right hon. Friend that the whole question of these fishery workers is engaging his very special attention.

Mr. MACLEAN

Does this mean salmon fishing and not poaching?