HC Deb 07 July 1947 vol 439 cc1788-9
47. Mr. Edward Evans

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is satisfied that the Herring Industry Board has made adequate arrangements to deal with abnormal catches of herring during the East Anglian fishing season.

Mr. T. Williams

While the maximum quantity of herrings likely to be landed on any day during the East Anglian herring season is unpredictable, every effort is being made by the Herring Industry Board and the Departments concerned to ensure that all herrings landed will be utilised.

Mr. Evans

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the chaotic state of affairs which prevailed in East Anglia last year, owing to the inability of the Herring Board to deal with this matter? Can he assure us that that state of affairs will not recur?

Mr. Williams

I can only assure my hon. Friend that the Ministry of Food have started a campaign to eat more fish, including herrings, and are endeavouring to secure increased kipper factory accommodation and an improvement in the kippers.

Air-Commodore Harvey

if there should be a glut this autumn, will the Minister consider sending the fishing vessels direct to Holland and Germany, to discharge their catches at the ports there?

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