HC Deb 15 February 1939 vol 343 cc1716-7
47. Mr. Garro Jones

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether the adequacy and suitability of fishing vessels and the state of the Mercantile Marine in relation to defence needs is receiving the attention of his Department; and, in particular, having regard to the large number of very old vessels in the trawling industry and the unemployment of large numbers of skilled men who can build them, he will examine the possibility of State assistance and organisation for a scrap-and-build scheme?

48. Miss Ward

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether the Committee of Imperial Defence has examined the position of the Merchant Navy in relation to the defence of this country; and whether he is satisfied that the national safety is not impaired by the decline of merchant shipbuilding?

The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Mr. W. S. Morrison)

The state of the Mercantile Marine and fishing fleets in relation to defence needs is receiving the constant attention of the Departments concerned, and all aspects of the question are being kept under review.

Mr. Garro Jones

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is considerable apprehension lest, owing to the diversified control of and responsibility for the Mercantile Marine fishing service, important facts regarding its weakening strength are being overlooked in regard to the taking of effective action?

Mr. Morrison

I was not aware of that apprehension.

Mr. Garro Jones

On which Minister or Ministers does the responsibility rest for discussing measures for dealing with this situation?

Mr. Morrison

The defence aspect of the problem is kept under review by the Committee of Imperial Defence and the Departments concerned; proposals for assisting the fishing fleet should be addressed to the Minister of Agriculture, and questions on the Mercantile Marine to the President of the Board of Trade.

Viscountess Astor

Has any satisfaction been obtained, as far as fishing is concerned, from the Minister of Agriculture? Could the Government consider setting up a Ministry of Fisheries at once?

Mr. Morrison

I should require notice of that question.

Miss Ward

Might I have an answer to the last part of my question?

Mr. Morrison

The hon. Lady, in the last part of her question, asks me whether I am satisfied that the national safety is not being impaired. I cannot say that I am satisfied yet about anything, and it does not do to be too easily satisfied on questions of this sort.

Miss Ward

When will my right hon. Friend be in a position to say whether he is satisfied or not?

Mr. Morrison

I will inform the hon. Lady.

Mr. Mander

Is the Minister not satisfied with the Government?