12. Major WOODasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether health and pensions insurance contributions are required from share fishermen in respect of a fishing which has resulted in a financial loss; and whether he will issue instructions to guide fishermen and others in this matter?
§ Mr. JOHNSTONMy right hon. Friend is advised that the legal position is that health and pensions insurance contributions are payable in respect of share fishermen engaged on a fishing venture which has resulted in a financial loss. As regards the second part of the question, an explanatory memorandum has already been issued by the Department of Health on the general question of the insurability of share fishermen in Scotland, and the Department will be prepared in individual cases brought to their notice to consider any difficulties that may arise.