HC Deb 27 March 1946 vol 421 cc354-5
7. Squadron-Leader Donner

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether it is intended to carry out a general survey to inquire: into the possible extension of the fishing industry, and of the ancillary industries of drying, canning and the extraction of special products such as liver oils and glue; and if he will give an assurance that the possibilities in this connection associated with the smaller island dependencies will be considered seriatim.

Mr. georģe Hall

Yes, Sir. Surveys of the fisheries of all the West Indian Colonies and also of St. Helena have already been completed by experts, and the local fishing industries, including the preservation of fish and the use of byproducts, are now being developed in accordance with their recommendations. The fisheries of ail the maritime colonies and the East African lakes will be investigated as soon as the necessary staff is available; preparatory work is already going on in East and West Africa, Hong Kong and Mauritius.

Squadron-Leader Donner

Would the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the needs of some of the smaller Pacific islands?

Mr. Hall

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Scollan

Would my right hon. Friend also impress on the Minister of Food the necessity of doing something of the same sort at home?