HC Deb 03 November 1947 vol 443 c1342
55. Major Bruce

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is satisfied that existing fishing fleets are adequate in number to fulfil his catch requirements and that existing repair and replacement facilities are sufficient to maintain such fleets at their desired strength.

Mr. G. Brown

I am not satisfied that the existing fishing fleets are adequate in number to fulfil catch requirements but a number of vessels are now under construction or have been ordered. Existing repair and replacement facilities will be sufficient to maintain these fleets.

Major Bruce

Will my hon. Friend say whether he has had any consultation with his right hon. Friend the First Lord of the Admiralty to see whether some of the small craft construction and repair facilities at the Royal Dockyards could be used.

Mr. Hector Hughes

Is my hon. Friend aware that the financial limits imposed by the Inshore Fisheries Act are insufficient for the purposes of the repairs to and replacement of ships, and in this connection will he take steps to have those limits raised and provide the money necessary?

Mr. Brown

The whole question of organisation is under consideration.