§ 33. Mr. GALLACHERasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether in view of the serious plight of the herring fishing industry in Scotland what steps he proposes to take to give immediate assistance, pending the developments that may take place as a result of opening up markets in Russia, Palestine, the United States of America, and other countries?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEThe Government have recently agreed to make advances amounting to £100,000 to enable the Herring Industry Board to purchase redundant drifters, and to make loans for reconditioning drifters and the provision of new nets and gear. The Government are also providing, in the current Estimates, the sum of £35,000 for grants for promoting market development and schemes of research or experiment. These steps have been taken under the Act which was passed last year after a, comprehensive review of the herring industry. Grants for reconditioning vessels and for subsidising fishing operations and wages which have been suggested in representations made to the Government, are not permitted by the Act, and my right hon. Friend can hold out no prospect of legislation to alter the financial provisions of the Act.
§ Mr. GALLACHERIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman not aware of the fact that various councils in the area affected by the fishing industry have discussed this question and have come to the conclusion that the proposals are of no immediate value to the fishing industry and that something special must be done if the industry is to be saved? Will the Minister arrange for a meeting with representatives of these towns and the Scottish Members in order that this matter may be discussed and settled, as this is a very desperate situation?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEI suggest that the scheme of the Herring Industry Board might have a fair trial because of the strenuous efforts they are making.
§ Mr. GALLACHERWill the Minister not consider the suggestion of getting the representatives together?
§ Mr. JOHNSTONIs the Minister not aware that the trouble here is not the necessity for increased production but for increased consumption of the product, and can he do anything to increase the development of the home market for herring?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEThis suggestion is very prominently before the Herring Board. I agree with the right hon. Gentleman that the matter is one of concern in the home market as well as the export market.