§ 26. Mr. BOOTHBYasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether it is the intention of the Government to introduce legislation this Session to deal with the herring fishing industry?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Sir Godfrey Collins)I regret I cannot at the moment make a statement on the subject of legislation, but I will inform the House as soon as I am in a position to do so.
§ Mr. BOOTHBYCan my right hon. Friend say when he thinks he will be in a position to do so? Will it be before the Christmas Recess? It is an important matter.
§ Sir G. COLLINSI cannot make any further statement. I realise that it is an important matter.
§ Mr. MACLEANIn view of the fact that herring fishing will begin again in the new year, will the right hon. Gentleman give any hope that it will be introduced early in the Session?
§ Sir G. COLLINSI can assure the hon. Gentleman that we are fully seized with the urgency of the matter and know that the herring people have to go to sea next year. Further than that I cannot go at the moment.
§ Mr. BOOTHBYIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter at the earliest possible opportunity on the Adjournment.