§ 58. Mr. Loftusasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has considered the protest from the English Herring Catchers' Association regarding the composition and powers of the new Herring Industry Board; and if he proposes to take any action thereon?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The membership of the new Board and the terms of their appointment having now been settled by my colleagues and myself after careful consideration of all aspects of the question, I do not think that anything would be gained by my discussing the matter with representatives of the English Herring Catchers' Association. I have every confidence in the new Board but the success of its work will necessarily depend to a considerable extent on its receiving the full co-operation of all sections of the industry.
§ Mr. Malcolm MacMillanDoes the Minister expect to get the full co-operation of the industry if those on the West Coast do not have better representation on the new board than they had on the old board?
§ Mr. MorrisonIn the case of all these boards there is always criticism from sections of industry that their section has not been properly represented. On a small board like this it is impossible for each locality to have representation. The board is, in my judgment, well qualified to carry out its duties, and I would appeal to hon. Members who have influence with their constituents in this matter to give it a chance.
§ Mr. MacMillanMy question did not imply any criticism of the new board, and I agree with what the Minister said about giving them a chance, but will he give special consideration to opportunities for advice being available from the West Coast as a whole? It is not a sectional appeal merely from any section of the industry.
§ Mr. MorrisonI would remind the hon. Member that an advisory council is being set up, and I will bear in mind what he says as to the necessity of better representation of West Coast interests.