HC Deb 21 February 1949 vol 461 c1575
18. Mr. Douglas Marshall

asked the Minister of Food whether he is satisfied that the capacity of the canning factories in Cornwall is sufficient to meet the increased supplies of pilchards which are likely to be landed in 1949.

Mr. Strachey

Canning capacity was increased last year, and a further increase is expected this year. A large proportion of the Cornish pilchards are bought for curing, and I have no reason to think that this year's catch will not be readily absorbed for one purpose or another.

Mr. Beechman

Will the Minister, through the canning section of his Ministry, consider a proposal from the Penzance authority and others for establishing a canning factory as soon as possible at Newlyn, as it is expected that the catch will be far greater than hitherto owing to new devices for the catching of the fish?

Mr. Strachey

We will consider that with great interest.