HC Deb 16 May 1927 vol 206 c920
21. Mr. GRUNDY

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that an expansion of the fishing industry is discouraged by the relatively high freightage rates charged for the transport of fish; and whether he will implement the promise made by his predecessor to take steps to bring the parties together for a discussion with regard to it?

Mr. GUINNESS

I think it would be difficult to maintain that the rates charged for carriage of fish are high, either in relation to the rates charged for other perishable commodities or to the increased cost of working the railways. As regards the second part of the question, my predecessor prepared the way for a meeting between representatives of the fishing industry and of the railways, but I understand that after further discussion the representatives of the fishing industry decided not to carry the matter further. No serious complaint of excessive rates for the carriage of fish has reached me during my term of office.

Mr. WALLHEAD

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that his answer could not be heard at all on this side of the House?