§ 36. Sir M. WOODasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that about half of the herring cured during the course of the recent East Anglian fishing are still unsold; that, unless these herring find an outlet, many curers will not resume operations next summer; that if a trade agreement with Russia was now in operation a sale of herring could be effected; and whether he can take steps to have an agreement concluded without further delay?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Runciman)I am aware of the difficulties of the herring industry. I can assure my hon. and gallant Friend that there will be no avoidable delay here in concluding the negotiations now in progress for a new commercial agreement with the Soviet Union.
§ Sir M. WOODIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the present situation is seriously affecting employment, inasmuch as curers are unable to set their coopers at work until they know more clearly the prospects for next year?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANYes, Sir, I am quite well informed on that matter.