HC Deb 11 November 1952 vol 507 cc755-6
35. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that the absence of a flat-rate for the carriage of fish from the North of Scotland fishing ports to the consuming centres further south tends to kill whole fishing communities which are national assets; and if he will take immediate steps to have this problem dealt with on a national basis.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

The introduction of a flat-rate transport scheme for white fish is a matter in the first place for the White Fish Authority, and they have decided not to propose it.

Mr. Hughes

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the absence of a flat-rate is due to a broken promise by the White Fish Authority, and that it is prejudicial to our national defence, as well as to the fishing industry? Will he consult with the Prime Minister with a view to eliminating this adverse discrimination against Scotland and see that justice is done?

Mr. Stewart

The hon. and learned Gentleman may be assured that, so far as we are concerned and while we are in power, justice will be done.

Lady Tweedsmuir

Is the Joint Under-Secretary aware that the British Transport Commission are about to ask for a 5 per cent. increase in freight charges, which will mean an immense burden on the northern ports, and will he therefore press the Transport Tribunal to consider, as a matter of urgency, an extended scheme of tapering charges?

Mr. Stewart

My noble Friend may be assured that we are in close touch with the transport authorities on behalf of Scottish interests, and that we are doing our utmost to improve conditions.

Mr. Hughes

Is the Minister aware that he has overlooked that portion of my Question which asked him to have the matter raised on a national level, because it affects our national defence as well as the fishing industry, and will he therefore consult with the Prime Minister to have this matter dealt with on a national level so that justice is done?

Mr. Stewart

I cannot undertake to do quite that, but I certainly assure the hon. and learned Gentleman that this matter is not regarded as of minor importance, but as one of the utmost importance for all purposes.