HC Deb 06 July 1936 vol 314 cc840-1
29. Mr. ROLAND ROBINSON

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether his attention has been called to the decision of the executive committee of the National Federation of Fish Fryers to take steps to close shops in England and Wales as a protest against the embargo on the landing of flat fish from northern waters during the summer months; and whether he proposes to take any further action with regard to the embargo?

28. Mr. WINDSOR

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether his attention has been called to the serious situation arising among the fish-fryers of Hull and Blackpool; and whether he will now take steps to lift the embargo on white fish, particularly in view of the rise in price of this commodity, which is making it difficult for many fish-fryers to carry on their business?

Mr. ELLIOT

I have received representations as to the effect on the fish frying trade of the summer embargo on fish from distant waters imposed by the Northern Waters Order. I have also seen references in the Press to the threatened closing of shops mentioned by my hon. Friend the Member for Blackpool (Mr. R. Robinson). The operation of the Order is being closely considered by the Government particularly in the light of the report of the Sea Fish Commission, but at present I am not in a position to make a statement on the subject.

Mr. ROBINSON

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when he hopes to be able to make a statement?

Mr. ELLIOT

I could not say now, but I will get into communication with my hon. Friend.

Mr. PETHERICK

Will my right hon. Friend consider carefully the interests of the fishermen as well as the interests of the consumers? Will he remember when making up his mind on this matter that neither fish fryers nor other consumers can expect to get their raw material at the bankrupt prices of 1933?

Mr. ELLIOT

I will keep that point in mind.