§ 60. Sir MURDOCH McKENZIE WOODasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has any information regarding the condition of the herring drifters and the ability of the fishermen to replace those that are worn out; and whether the Government has considered the possibility of providing loans to assist them in their present difficulties?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Mr. Skelton)My right hon. Friend is aware that the condition of many of the herring drifters is unsatisfactory, but he feels that it would be premature to deal with the question of possible Government assistance for their replacement or reconditioning, until the Sea Fish Commission has examined the important question of reorganisation of the herring industry. As my hon. Friend is aware, the Commission will be asked to give priority to this subject.
§ Mr. HENDERSON STEWARTCan my hon. Friend give us any indication of when the Sea Fish Commission are likely to report on the herring side of the inquiry?
§ Mr. SKELTONNo. Sir, I cannot.