HC Deb 14 April 1938 vol 334 cc1310-1
63. Sir Edmund Findlay

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the Government have now completed their examination of the position of the herring fishing industry; and, if so, whether they have any statement to make as to their intentions?

64. Mr. Boothby

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is now in a position to make any statement following upon the consideration which the Government have been giving to the condition of the herring fishing industry?

Mr. Elliot

As a result of their examination of the position of the herring industry, the Government propose to ask Parliament to amend and extend the provisions of the Herring Industry Act, 1935. In order to secure a more up-to-date and economical herring fleet, it is proposed, as an emergency scheme, limited to a period of five years, to make grants to herring fishermen in addition to loans which are already available, to assist the construction of large motor herring boats. The annual programme of new motor boats will be adjusted so as not to exceed the reduction in the number of steam drifters. The period during which loans can be issued under the Act of 1935 for new construction, nets and other purposes, expires on 31t March, 1940 It is proposed to extend the facilities by prolonging this period to 1943. It is also proposed to amend the constitution of the Herring Industry Board by providing that the board shall be composed of three independent members only. In addition there will be an advisory council drawn from the different sections of the industry. The power to make grants towards the administrative expenses of the board and towards their expenses for advertising, market development, research and experiment, expired at 31st March, 1938. It is proposed to renew grants for these purposes on a modified basis, during a period of five years. It is intended to introduce the necessary legislation at an early date.

Mr. Boothby

When shall we have the legislation on this matter?

Mr. Elliot

We propose to introduce it at an early date, but its subsequent course will no doubt depend upon hon. Members in various parts of the House.

Mr. Boothby

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the urgent necessity of getting legislation through as soon as possible before the opening of the Autumn season?

Mr. Loftus

Will this also apply to the English herring industry?

Mr. Elliot

Certainly, it is a United Kingdom scheme.