§ 45. Miss Irene Wardasked the Prime Minister whether he can now make a statement on the future policy for the fishing industry arising out of discussions which have been proceeding between the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Minister of Food and the Secretary of State for Scotland.
§ The Lord President of the Council (Mr. Herbert Morrison)I have been asked to reply. The examination of this matter is proceeding, but it has not yet been completed.
§ Miss WardIs this prolonged delay due to the fact that the expressed desires of the fishing industry are in conflict with Government policy; and could the right hon. Gentleman say why the Government do not put into operation in the fishing industry their policy of full employment?
§ Mr. MorrisonThat is rather a long and involved question, based upon wrong assumptions.
Commander GalbraithDoes the right hon. Gentleman fully appreciate the seriousness of the situation? Does he realise that large sections of the fishing industry are presently faced with nothing short of disaster, and, in those circumstances, would he not make arrangements to allow a full Debate of this subject immediately the House reassembles?
§ Mr. MorrisonThe Government certainly appreciate the situation. I can assure the hon. and gallant Gentleman that that is so. We are taking all these important factors into account, and will arrive at a conclusion as soon as we can.
§ Mr. Malcolm MacMillanIs my right hon. Friend aware that hon. Members on this side of the House are most appreciative of the recent reception of certain proposals by the Minister and other Ministers concerned, and of their promise to consider the representations that have been made?
§ Mr. Henderson StewartIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the organisation of inshore fishermen, only the other day, sent messages to Members of Parliament and to the Government pointing out in detail their troubles, and announcing that unless drastic and immediate action were taken, great disaster would overcome that important industry?