§ 18. Mr. Henderson Stewartasked the First Lord of the Admiralty what was the outcome of the conference held on 19th October which discussed war problems of the fishing industry?
§ The First Lord of the Admiralty (Mr. Churchill)As a result of the conference to which my hon. Friend refers, certain steps have been agreed upon for the immediate assistance of the fishing industry. A standing committee has been set up to advise the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries and the Secretary of State for Scotland on questions affecting the industry as a whole in time of war, and in particular the maintenance and distribution of supplies. It has been possible to return a number of requisitioned vessels to the industry as they have been relieved by other vessels. The question of purchasing and building further trawlers for the industry is being actively pursued.
Mr. StewartCould my right hon. Friend make any statement about the matter which will reassure those who are concerned with the winter herring fishing in the Firth of Forth which is due to start in a few weeks' time?
§ Mr. ChurchillNo, Sir. I think the herring fishery was not part of the conference, which dealt more particularly with other aspects of the protection of the country.
§ Mr. ChurchillNot directly under my care and attention; but I feel absolutely bound to do everything possible to prevent the needs of the Admiralty and the Navy from ill-using or unduly upsetting this invaluable industry.
§ Mr. Robert GibsonIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that some of these fishermen have been getting only 1s. 2d. a basket?