HC Deb 20 March 1946 vol 420 c1874
79. Mr. Edward Davies

asked the Minister of Food what was the exact position in regard to the wastage of fish in Billingsgate Market over the week-end; and whether he is taking any action to avoid wastage in the future.

Dr. Summerskill

Out of 4,300 tons of fish which arrived at Billingsgate Market during the week ended 16th March, about 41 tons, or 0.9 per cent. of the total, were condemned. This quantity was made up largely of inferior or un popular fish which did not command a ready sale, and is not considered excessive in relation to the extremely heavy arrivals. My right hon. Friend is, how-ever, considering whether it is possible to improve the transport arrangements between the market and the retailers.

Wing-Commander Millington

Can my hon. Friend tell me the name of any fish which is unpopular amongst the fish starved housewives of two-thirds of this country?

Dr. Summerskill

Yes, certainly: lugs, milts and gurnards.

Mr. Collins

Is my hon. Friend aware that a considerable part of the transport' difficulties is caused by traffic congestion near Billingsgate of vans delivering fish, which causes considerable delay, and that the Minister of Transport might be able to assist there?

Dr. Summerskill

Yes, Sir, we are aware of this, and we are consulting with the Minister of Transport to try and improve matters.