HC Deb 19 February 1947 vol 433 cc1179-80
58. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Minister of Food on what principle he acts in granting preferred cases licences to trade in white fish.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food (Dr. Edith Summerskill)

I would refer my hon. and learned Friend to the reply given on 29th January to the hon. Member for Louth (Mr. Osborne).

Mr. Hughes

Would the hon. Lady say how a priority is established between these applicants; is it by percentage of disability or otherwise?

Dr. Summerskill

In every case my Department consult with the Ministry of Labour, and where it is considered that an applicant cannot obtain a livelihood in any other way he is given a licence.

Mr. Walkden

Does my hon. Friend recall the fact that there was no licensing of fish shops before the war, and that there is a more plentiful supply of fish today; and can she give one valid reason why we should continue the licensing of fish shops at all?

Dr. Summerskill

I would remind the hon. Gentleman that the manpower position has changed; at the moment transport is difficult; and, primarily, during the winter months there is still a shortage.

Mr. Walkden

But what has that to do with the licensing of fish shops? [HON. MEMBERS: Answer."] I press the point.

Mr. Speaker

Mr. Bossom. Mr. Medland.

Mr. Bossom

rose—

Mr. Speaker

I get rather tired of calling out hon. Members' names. I called the name of the hon. Member for Maidstone (Mr. Bossom) several times, and I have passed over hon. Members who have not risen.

Mr. Bossom

I am very sorry, Mr. Speaker. I could not hear, as there was a certain amount of noise in the House.