§ 31. Sir D. Robertsonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that the Herring Industry Board's decision to exclude Lochinver from the Minch scheme, having regard to its central situation on the mainland, will cause hardship to local fishermen; and if he will investigate this matter.
Mr. McNeilArrangements for the Minch schemes are within the competence of the Herring Industry Board. I am informed, however, that should the Board's wider proposals for the flat price schemes become operative during the summer fishing, Lochinver will be included with other ports.
§ 40. Mr. M. MacMillanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland the position with regard to the Herring Industry Board's proposed scheme for the Minch area.
Mr. McNeilThe Scottish Herring Producers' Association have rejected proposals made by the Herring Industry Board for a flat price scheme to be operated at all ports, including those in the Minch, on the ground that the prices offered by the Board are too low.
§ Mr. MacMillanAre they completely stuck there now; and what action is being taken to put into operation a scheme which is vitally important for the employment of the industry in the production of herrings?
Mr. McNeilI agree about its importance. The Herring Producers' Association have made certain submissions to the Government, but of course in the end it will have to be decided between the Board and the Association.
§ Mr. Henderson StewartAre the Board and the Association now in conversation about this, or has the whole matter just stopped?
Mr. McNeilNo, I think intermittent conversations are going on, as is obvious from the Press. The point that I must in fairness make is that the Herring Producers' Association have made certain submissions to the Government.