HC Deb 16 June 1931 vol 253 cc1600-1
15. Mr. ARTHUR MICHAEL SAMUEL

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will take steps to stop the importation, duty free, of Norwegian herring into Britain during the winter herring-fishing season on the East Coast of Scotland and England?

Mr. W. R. SMITH

No, Sir, it is not the policy of His Majesty's Government to impose protective duties, particularly on articles of food.

Mr. SAMUEL

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that 2,000 crans of herring from Norway are due to be landed to-day and that this will injure most of the Scottish fishermen owing to their decision to postpone the beginning of the Scottish fisheries in order that the market for cured herring may not be swamped with supplies?

Mr. SMITH

I have nothing to add to my reply.

Mr. SAMUEL

Will the hon. Gentleman consult with the Secretary of State for Scotland about this attack on the summer fishing?

Mr. SMITH

Yes, certainly.

Sir ROBERT HAMILTON

Will the hon. Gentleman bring this matter to the notice of the Secretary of State for Scotland, having regard to the danger of controlling the industry and the results to which it may lead?