§ 38. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Minister of Food if he is aware of the dissatisfaction in Aberdeen with the allocation to firms in respect of white fish there; upon what principle are these allocations made; and if he will inquire into and make an early statement on the subject.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food (Dr. Edith Summerskill)Aberdeen merchants are dissatisfied because a group of English buyers who traded at the port during the war still receive an allocation. Allocations at Aberdeen are generally based on 1939 purchases but that for the English group is fixed at 6 per cent. of the allocated fish. This is proportionately less than their purchases before allocation was introduced. These merchants perform a useful function especially in glut periods, and my right hon. Friend is not prepared to withdraw their allocation, although he is willing to consider any new points which may be put to him.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Minister aware that there are serious complaints of unfair discrimination concerning these allocations, and will she look into the matter?
§ Dr. SummerskillWe have looked into it. I am sure my hon. and learned Friend will agree that it is a little difficult to reconcile consumer interests with the merchants' views.
§ 39. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Minister of Food what is his policy with regard to old and new firms in the city of Aberdeen which erect quick-freezing plants for white fish; it he is aware of the confusion existing in this matter; and if he will take steps to resolves the difficulties so as to make as much white fish as possible available to the public.
§ Dr. SummerskillAllocations of white fish are made to all efficient and conveniently sited quick-freezing plants. This applies to both old established and new plants, and I know of no confusion on the point. The small allocations being made now are designed to encourage the development of quick freezing, which could greatly improve supplies to the public during the winter.