§ 19. Miss Burtonasked the Minister of Food whether he has considered the letter from the Transport and General Workers' 1078 Union, dated 17th July, concerning the price levels of fish; and whether he has been able to accept the suggestions made therein.
Dr. HillThe letter contains proposals for the re-organisation and regulation of the white fish industry which should be considered in the first instance by the White Fish Authority. My right hon. and gallant Friend is bringing the views of the Union to the attention of the Authority.
§ Miss BurtonCould the hon. Gentleman get on a little more quickly with the suggestion that there should be a minimum price fixed at ports and a maximum price in the shops, the difference between the two prices covering the middlemen's charges?
Dr. HillThe hon. Lady will be aware from the Report of the White Fish Authority that the pattern of cost and distribution is one of the subjects now being studied by that body.
§ Miss BurtonIs the Parliamentary Secretary aware that trying to persuade this Government to deal with the matter of distribution seems to be beyond the power of any Member of Parliament?
Dr. HillAs the Secretary to the Union which wrote this letter is a member of the Advisory Council to the White Fish Authority he will have every opportunity of prodding them into activity.
§ Lady TweedsmuirAs the cost of distribution is one of the greatest factors in relation to the price of fish, will the Parliamentary Secretary press the White Fish Authority to produce their flat rate charge scheme for Parliament?