§ 24. Mr. Henderson Stewartasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he can now state his conclusions on the present state and future prospects of the fishing industry following upon decontrol of prices, abandonment of the flat rate transport scheme and the continuing rise in costs of fishing gear; and what action he proposes to take to preserve the vitality and the defence potential of the industry.
§ Mr. T. FraserI cannot add to what the Prime Minister said last week, that a statement will be made as soon as possible.
§ Mr. StewartWould the hon. Gentleman kindly answer the first part of the Question—whether he has reached any 'conclusion? Are we to take it that he has reached no conclusion?
§ Mr. FraserIf we had reached conclusions we should be able to make a statement and we should make a statement. It is a very serious matter, it is being very fully, carefully and urgently considered, and as soon as possible a statement will be made.
§ Mr. GrimondCan the Joint Under-Secretary of State say whether this inquiry covers both sides of the fishing industry? Will his statement cover both the herring industry and the white fish industry?
§ Mr. FraserNo. This is an inquiry into the white fish industry.
§ Captain DuncanCan the hon. Gentleman give any idea of the date when the Government's conclusions will be reached?
§ Mr. FraserNo.