HC Deb 20 March 1952 vol 497 cc2532-3
18. Mr. T. Driberg

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement on the commercial exploitation of the marine polyp, sertularia cuprisenea; and what has been the value, in any convenient recent period, of the export of this commodity to the dollar area or elsewhere.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

The hon. Member is, I think, referring to a marine animal found in estuarial waters and which resembles a small feathery fern. I understand that after drying and dyeing it is used for trimming millinery and for decorative purposes. I regret that I have no information about the export of this commodity as it is not separately distinguished in trade returns.

Mr. Driberg

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a thriving trade in this commodity or creature on the coast of Essex, and that many of the fishermen in my constituency are anxious to know whether it is more in the national interest that they should catch fish or that they should catch polyps, in view of the apparent export potential; and is he aware that this is one of those rare Questions which are genuinely seeking information?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I doubt whether this decision would have a dramatic effect on our economy in either case.