§ 65. Mr. Loganasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware that from 10th September to 18th September, 1943, both days inclusive, 2,071 tons of fish passed through 883 London markets and only 148½ tons through Liverpool fish market for that period; that this inequitable distribution is causing disquiet on Merseyside; and whether he is now prepared to allocate an additional port of supply for Merseyside before winter shortage commences?
§ Mr. MabaneThe estimated quantity of white fish which passed through the London and Liverpool markets during the period in question was, in terms of whole fish, 1916 tons and 208 tons respectively. In relation to the quantity received in the Liverpool market, London received about 4½ per cent. more than its strict proportion, and I do not regard these figures as evidence of inequitable distribution. As from 16th October, 1943, Liverpool will be placed in a more favourable position than in the past, because a substantial part of the entitlements of certain other markets will be transferred from Fleetwood to East Coast and Scottish ports.
§ Mr. LoganIs it not a fact that the accuracy of my figures cannot be disputed? Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that, because of the lack of meat supplies in Liverpool and the number of workers on the dockside, it is necessary to make proper arrangements for adequate supplies of fish in the city?
§ Mr. MabaneI think the hon. Member's figures deal with fish not subject to controlled distribution—herrings, mackerel, and so on. My figures are the correct figures relating to white fish, which are in the distribution scheme.
§ Mr. LoganAm I to take it that more fish from ports other than the Fleetwood area is to be brought in under the new arrangement?
§ Mr. MabaneNo, it is the other way round. Supplies now drawn from Fleetwood to certain markets will be drawn from elsewhere—the East Coast and Scottish ports—so making more fish available for Liverpool.
§ Mr. Neil MacleanIs the hon. Gentleman not aware that there is already a great shortage of supplies of fish in the towns of Scotland, and that any transfer to Liverpool will increase that shortage considerably?
§ Mr. MabaneI think Scotland has come off rather well so far.
§ Mr. MacleanWill the Minister go to live in Scotland for a fortnight, and see?
§ Mr. MabaneI should be very glad to live in Scotland for a time.