HC Deb 14 July 1943 vol 391 cc200-1
64. Mr. Boothby

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food why even at the height of the fishing season, fresh herring and kippers are practically unobtainable in London and the Southern counties?

Mr. Mabane

Owing to circumstances connected with the war the quantity of herrings landed is now very much less than in peace-time, and even during the height of the fishing season is considerably below the demand by consumers. The distribution of herrings and kippers is not controlled. Landings of herrings during the past fortnight have been below expectations, but I am informed that moderate supplies of both herrings and kippers have been received at Billingsgate.

Mr. Boothby

Is not my hon. Friend aware that the failure to obtain herrings has caused great disappointment to many people who have come to care for them very much, and will he take steps with the transport companies to see that something is done to make them available occasionally in London and the south?

Mr. Mabane

Herrings and kippers are not subject to control, and the trade can distribute them as they wish. The evidence before me shows that substantial quantities have arrived at Billingsgate in the last fortnight.

Mr. Sorensen

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that some fishmongers complain that they cannot get kippers for distribution to their customers, and does that not mean that the scheme is working adversely?

Mr. Mabane

I have tried to explain that there is no scheme. Herrings and kippers are not controlled.

Mr. Evelyn Walkden

Is there not good reason for believing that they are going to hotels and are therefore not available in the shops?

Mr. Hannah

Is it not far more serious that hardly more than a stray sardine ever reaches the Black country?

Mr. Mabane

The Black country gets plenty of white fish.