FISHING INDUSTRY. (Hansard, 18 July 1929)

56. Major WOOD
asked the Prime Minister when he proposes to institute the promised official investigation into the fishing industry?

§ The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Noel Buxton)
I have been asked to reply. As I have already stated, I am considering with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland, whether there is any occasion for a formal official inquiry to supplement the general review of the fishing industry in which we are both engaged.

Major WOOD
Will the right hon. Gentleman say why he has considered that this inquiry only is necessary, when it was stated—

§ Mr. SPEAKER
The hon. Member must ask his question and not give information.

Major WOOD
My question, Mr. Speaker, is directed to ask whether the Government propose to have a set inquiry into this matter, as they said they were going to do.

§ Mr. BUXTON
The Government are doing what they said they would do, and that is to carry out an official investigation into the fishing industry. It may be that the Secretary of State for Scotland and myself will find that a further step is necessary and to have an official inquiry.

Major WOOD
May I take it that the right hon. Gentleman has not yet come to the conclusion that a set inquiry is necessary?

§ Sir A. SINCLAIR
Is it not the case that an inquiry was promised, and not an inquiry as to whether an inquiry is necessary?

§ Mr. BUXTON
The promise was that an official investigation should take place.

§ Mr. WOMERSLEY
May I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman is making these inquiries through the Department or inquiries from those who are interested in the fishing industry?

§ Mr. SPEAKER
That is a question which should be put on the Paper.