HC Deb 06 July 1938 vol 338 cc384-5
67. Mr. Garro Jones

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the fishermen in Ullapool suffer a serious disadvantage in that, unless their fish can be sold in time to catch either of the two daily trains for Aberdeen, it is left over until the next day; that this disadvantage would be removed if the limit of distance allowed to motor contractors to carry fish could be extended from Garve to Aberdeen; and whether any action can be taken in the matter?

The Minister of Transport (Mr. Burgin)

The grant of licences to road carriers, and the conditions attached to those licenses, are matters for the licensing authority, and under the Statute are not within my jurisdiction.

Mr. Macquisten

Then it does not matter what happens to the fish, as long as the railways are protected?

Mr. Garro Jones

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the propriety of asking the railway companies either to withdraw their objection to the grant of these licences when applications are made, or to run fish trains between these fishing towns?

Mr. Burgin

As I have pointed out, the matter is not within my jurisdiction. The licensing authorities consider these applications, and there is an appeal from the refusal to grant a licence by the licensing authorities.

Mr. Garro Jones

While it is not within the jurisdiction of the right hon. Gentleman, he frequently makes representations, and I am asking him whether he will consider doing so in this case?