§ 16. Sir David Robertsonasked the Minister of Food whether, in view of the fact that herring fishermen have sustained serious losses since the season opened in April and that the Herring Industry Board have been compelled to abandon their controlled schemes, he will restore complete freedom to the industry by withdrawing price controls.
§ Mr. StracheyNo, Sir. The principal outlets for herrings covered by the Herring Industry Board schemes were for curing, export and reduction to oil and meal. The price control of the Ministry of Food relates to herrings sold for home consumption.
§ Sir D. RobertsonWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that this industry receives no subsidy—not even a guaranteed price—and does he think that a maximum price of 2½d. a pound is fair to the fisherman? Does he know that every boat is in debt, and that the fishermen are not getting a living wage?
§ Mr. StracheyThe herrings have been bought, if not at guaranteed prices, at prices fixed with the Herring Industry Board, and I should certainly not be in favour of an increase in price to the consumer today.
§ Sir D. RobertsonHow does the Minister expect a famine catch to pay at 2½d. a pound?
§ Mr. StracheyI do not think that in recent years the herring industry has done badly, but it is very true that today the catches are very disappointing. We hope that is a passing phenomenon.
§ Mr. A. Edward DaviesWill my right hon. Friend tell us what happens to the difference between 2½d. and 7d. which is the consumer price in the shop, and will he not lift up the price, because this is 950 of great importance to working-class families?
§ Mr. StracheyWe could not contemplate an increase in the retail price.
§ Sir D. RobertsonIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible moment.