HC Deb 18 December 1929 vol 233 cc1374-5
45. Mr. ROSBOTHAM

asked the Prime Minister whether in view of the increase in the work of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, and considering the importance of the fishing industry, he will set up a separate department for the latter with a Minister of Fisheries?

The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Noel Buxton)

In the absence of the Prime Minister, I have been asked to reply. I would refer my hon. Friend to the Prime Minister's reply to a similar question by the hon. Member for Lowestoft (Sir G. Rentoul) on 15th July, of which I am sending him a copy.

Mr. WOMERSLEY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that many committees and commissions which have sat in the past to consider the question of the fishing industry, have recommended the setting up of such a department?

Mr. BUXTON

I am afraid I cannot add to the Prime Minister's answer.

Rear-Admiral BEAMISH

Will the Minister convey to the right hon. Gentle- man the Prime Minister the fact that the tendency at present is that the fishing industry should receive less consideration than it did before?