HC Deb 15 November 1944 vol 404 cc1936-7
12. Mr. Hopkinson

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether any enquiry has been made into the distribution of fish landed for the consumption of airmen by vessels based upon the Yorkshire and Devon coasts; and, in particular, as to whether any of it has been given or sold to any person not entitled to receive it.

Captain Balfour

Yes, Sir. Particulars of this scheme were contained in an Answer which my right hon. Friend gave to the Member for Stourbridge (Mr. R. Morgan) on 10th November, a copy of which I am sending to the hon. Gentleman. This reply stated the circumstances under which sales and free supplies of fish were made. I have since received information that one point in the reply was not correct. The small supplies of fish to the fishermen—amounting to about 3 lbs. weight a week per man—were not discontinued as it is a custom of the trade to allow such supplies.

Mr. Hopkinson

Has my right hon. Friend found any evidence of the sale of very considerable quantities of this fish on the wholesale fish market at Leeds?

Captain Balfour

No, Sir. I have not found any such evidence. We have had various inquiries into this scheme, which was to benefit the Royal Air Force by the supply of fresh fish, and I do not think the hon. Member should bring such charges unless he is prepared to substantiate them.

Mr. Hopkinson

I have already asked for full inquiry to be made, so that I may submit evidence.