HC Deb 28 March 1939 vol 345 cc1878-9
40. Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will consider offering financial assistance for lobster ponds in the Western Isles; and what other proposals he has to assist this industry, especially with regard to transport and marketing?

Mr. Colville

As the hon. Member is aware, certain recommendations on the subject of lobster fishing, including the continuance of research into the technical difficulties of ponding lobsters, have been made by the Sub-Committee of the Scottish Economic Committee on the Highlands and Islands, and these are at present receiving consideration. In the meantime, the Fishery Board's pamphlet giving guidance as to the best methods of packing lobsters is being revised.

Mr. MacMillan

Will not the right hon. Gentleman consider those cases where a relatively small amount of assistance would help to settle the problem?

Mr. Colville

I am anxious that we should find the best way of assisting the lobster industry.

Mr. H. G. Williams

Will my right hon. Friend consider the possibility that the abolition of the capitalist class would diminish the demand for lobsters?