HC Deb 25 October 1939 vol 352 cc1388-9
47. Sir Joseph Leech

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether as herring are now in their most nutritious condition, and having regard to the economic food conditions now prevailing, he will make widely known the most economical methods of cooking herring and particularly the methods of removing the bone before cooking to eliminate waste?

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

The question of encouraging, with the assistance of existing agencies, the economical use of essential articles of food is receiving the close attention of my Department. I understand that excellent advice on the matter to which my hon. Friend refers is contained in "The New Herring Book" issued by the Herring Industry Board to the trade, the schools, and the general public.

Mr. Loftus

Is my right hon. Friend aware that at the present moment there is a glut of herring in Yarmouth and Lowestoft, and that boats are being held in port because there is no market for the fish; and will he take steps to encourage the use of herring so as to allow the boats to go to sea at the present period?

Mr. Morrison

I shall be very glad to do anything in my power to encourage the use of this valuable food.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

Will my right hon. Friend, as representing the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence, invite all the Service Departments to use the maximum quantity of herring?

Mr. John Morgan

Will the Minister undertake to clear these stocks of herring from Lowestoft and Yarmouth?

Mr. A. Reed

Will the Minister suggest to his right hon. Friends in the Army, Navy and Air Force that they should take more herring?

Mr. Loftus

Will my right hon. Friend give me the opportunity of showing him a telegram I have received?

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