§ 83. Mr. Boothbyasked the Minister of War Transport whether he will give an explanation of the delay in reconverting and fitting-out trawlers, drifters and other 41 fishing craft, which have been approved for release to the fishing industry and put in hand.
§ The Minister of War Transport (Mr. Barnes)Trawlers released from service are being repaired and reconditioned for fishing under Ministry supervision in repair yards allocated by the Admiralty. The number of the trawlers released is greater than can be absorbed by the facilities available and work on some of them must therefore be deferred. Drifters and other fishing craft are returned to owners as soon as possible on their release from service and the repair and reconditioning of these craft are arranged by the owners themselves.
§ Mr. BoothbyI beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment.
§ 84 . Mr. Spearmanasked the Minister of War Transport if he will state the reason for the delay in restoring the fishing boat "Pilotme" to the owner who is thereby, with his sons recently demobilised, deprived of making a livelihood and contributing to the fish supplies of the country.
§ Mr. BarnesI am informed that this vessel is still required for naval service.
§ Mr. SpearmanIs my right hon. Friend aware that this delay is holding up the supplies of fish by several hundred stone a week, and causing five exceptionally able fishermen to be out of work? Is there no method of accelerating this matter?
§ Mr. BarnesI intend to make further representations to the Admiralty.