HC Deb 16 May 1950 vol 475 cc1016-7
87. Mr. Douglas Marshall

asked the Minister of Labour what is the figure for unemployment in the fishing industry for the week ending 13th May.

Mr. Isaacs

The latest date for which figures of unemployment are available is 17th April, when the number of insured persons in the fishing industry recorded as unemployed in Great Britain was 8,587.

Mr. Marshall

Is the Minister aware that the figure for which I asked, and which he is unable to give, is a figure which is very large indeed and is growing? Will he consult with the Minister of Food to see if there could be a restriction on imports?

Mr. Isaacs

Quite obviously, if I am unable to give a figure, I am unable to say what it is.

Mr. Marshall

Is the Minister really suggesting that he is unaware that this figure is growing?

Mr. Isaacs

No. Sir. I am unaware of what the figure is.

Mr. Sydney Silverman

Will my right hon. Friend convey to the Prime Minister this very early desire on the part of the Opposition to restore control of the fishing industry?

Mr. Boothby

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the position at the present moment is very serious in the fishing industry, and that unemployment is mounting day by day in both England and Scotland? Will he impress upon his colleagues the necessity of dealing with the situation?

Mr. Isaacs

Yes, Sir, we are aware that the number is growing, and attention is honestly being given to it. The point is that I could not say exactly what the number is.

Miss Ward

Would it not be a good idea for the right hon. Gentleman now to put into operation the policy of full employment in the fishing industry?

Mr. Osborne

Does the figure of unemployment include the ancillary trades in the fishing industry?

Mr. Isaacs

I could not say without notice.

Mr. Churchill

Would it not be a good thing, now that prices have fallen and a free market is established for British housewives, to eat more fish?