§ 28. Captain FAIRFAXasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware of proposals for re-starting the Norfolk oyster fishery; and whether he will consider inviting suitable private persons and the local authorities concerned to meet and confer with him with a view to giving technical advice as to the best method and most suitable area for the restarting of oyster cultivation off the Norfolk coast?
§ The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Guinness)I am aware that the development of oyster fisheries in Norfolk has recently been the subject of discussion. The success of such an enterprise will depend upon factors as to which, I think, the best advice can be given by practical oyster planters. If and when the assistance of the Ministry is required, I shall be glad to give it. Meanwhile, I am following the discussion with sympathetic interest.
§ Captain FAIRFAXIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is not any particular difficulty about obtaining capital? What is urgently needed is a scientific survey, and the local authorities and the county need help in that way.
§ Mr. GUINNESSWe shall be glad to give any technical advice at our disposal, but we cannot, as a Ministry, take any active part in the preliminary stages, because we have certain judicial functions to carry out before any scheme can come into effect in making a special order and hearing objections.
§ Major McLEANIs it not a fact that some 20 years ago these fisheries were very productive indeed, and a revival would be equally welcome to the local people?
§ Mr. GUINNESSI believe there were oyster fisheries in Norfolk, but, as far as I know, the conditions remain unaltered, and if the oyster cultivation could be reestablished it might lead to a valuable industry.
Commander WILLIAMSIs the hon. Gentleman aware that those oysters are nothing like as good as Cornish oysters?