HC Deb 04 May 1937 vol 323 cc954-5
33. Mr. Garro Jones

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has now considered the hardship imposed on fishermen in Aberdeen by the obligation to pay Board of Trade signing on and off fees, totalling well over £1,000 per annum; whether he is aware that this liability is not imposed on fishermen in other ports; and whether he can now announce the abolition of these charges?

Mr. Runciman

As I informed my hon. Friend, the Member for Aberdeen, South (Sir D. Thomson) on 15th December last, the fees charged at Aberdeen in connection with the arrangements there for the engagement and discharge of fishermen at the Mercantile Marine Office are under consideration. As soon as a decision has been reached, the hon. Gentleman will be informed. He, is, of course, aware that it is not compulsory for fishermen to be engaged and discharged at a Mercantile Marine office. This arrangement at Aberdeen is carried on, I understand, by virtue of an understanding between the trawler owners and the fishermen.

Mr. Garro Jones

Does the right honk Gentleman realise that this matter was under consideration in December last, and that it is now May? When may a decision be expected?

Mr. Runciman

I cannot say when a conclusion will be reached, but I would point out that there are more parties concerned in this matter than the Board of Trade.

Mr. Garro Jones

Is it necessary to take more than six months to consult them; and is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I brought it to his attention 12 months ago?

Mr. Runciman

The arrangement existing then between employers and fishermen still remains the same.