HC Deb 08 December 1952 vol 509 cc29-30
38. Air Commodore Harvey

asked the Minister of Food how much fish from the ports of Hull and Grimby which was unsold during the week commencing 24th November was disposed of to fish-meal factories.

Dr. Hill

At Hull 107 tons, and at Grimsby 50 tons.

Air Commodore Harvey

Does not this show that, in spite of the action by the Icelandic Government, these large quantities of fish failed to secure even one bid from the buyers at the wharf; and does not it seem that the industry is doing quite well on its own account?

Dr. Hill

It is characteristic of the industry that a glut may occur on one day at a time of relative scarcity. Therefore, I do not follow the argument of my hon. and gallant Friend.

Mr. Dodds

Do not hon. Gentlemen opposite realise that there is an agreement between Hull and Grimsby trawler owners that when a ship comes in with a 100 per cent. catch of fish, everything over 80 per cent. must go to the fertiliser manufacturers, whether the public want it or not?

Dr. Hill

That is a wholly inaccurate statement.