HC Deb 24 May 1938 vol 336 c1037
40. Mr. Adamson

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the probability that the German quota for British herring will this year be very considerably reduced, he is prepared to consider a reduction of the landing of white fish from German fishing vessels in British ports under existing arrangements as a consequence?

Mr. Stanley

I understand that the representatives of the United Kingdom and German herring industries have been negotiating an agreement regarding supplies of cured herrings to the German market which will be in the interests of both parties. I should point out, however, that the amount of United Kingdom herring which may be imported into Germany depends on the amount of sterling provided under the Anglo-German Payments Agreement of 1st November, 1934, by German exports to the United Kingdom. As regards the last part of the question, the whole problem of the regulation of imports of white fish from foreign countries is at present under consideration.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

Has the right hon. Gentleman any information as to the possibility of marketing fresh herring in Germany, which would be very important?

Mr. Stanley

I could not answer that question offhand, especially as the agreement applies to cured herring.