§ 24. Sir MURDOCH McKENZIE WOODasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he can make a statement with regard to the dispute in the herring-fishing industry; and whether he has considered the advisability of his intervening to try to bring it to an end?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Sir Godfrey Collins)I understand that meetings of the two associations interested are being held in Aberdeen to-day, and I hope that as a result of these meetings the difficulties which have arisen will be surmounted. As regards the second part of the question, I may say that the Fishery Board wrote on the 10th of June to both associations urging the setting-up of a joint committee for the discussion of the questions at issue between them, and on Friday last they telegraphed emphasising the necessity of the immediate appointment of a small negotiating body. The chairman of the Fishery Board is in Aberdeen to-day and is prepared to render any assistance possible. I would only add that I am always ready to give such help as I can in the interests of the industry.
§ Sir M. WOODWill the right hon. Gentleman consider suggesting to the parties that they should pay the sum in dispute into a suspense account, leaving its ultimate destination to be decided later, and meantime allowing the fleet to proceed to sea?
§ Sir G. COLLINSThe proposal mentioned by the hon. Gentleman is being considered to-day, and, in view of that fact, I think that any expression of opinion on my part might not be tactful.