HC Deb 30 July 1947 vol 441 cc457-8
58. Mr. Younger

asked the Minister of Food how many new wholesale fish merchants have established themselves at Grimsby since the control of licences was abandoned.

Dr. Summerskill

Since my right hon. Friend relaxed the qualifications for wholesale fish licences on 1st July, one licence for herring has been granted at Grimsby to an established white fish merchant. A decision has not been reached on the remaining 89 applications for provisional white fish licences, largely because of the need to satisfy my Department that the applicants have suitable premises.

Mr. Younger

In view of the fact that there are several hundreds of merchants at Grimsby and that control of fish distribution still persists, can the hon. Lady say what advantage her Ministry expects from the increase in these merchants?

Dr. Summerskill

My right hon. Friend the Minister of Food reminded the House that perhaps in the fish industry at this stage a little healthy competition might be introduced.