HC Deb 31 March 1953 vol 513 cc1023-4
41. Mr. Boothby

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the negotiations for a further purchase of cured herring by the Soviet Government have now reached a successful conclusion.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

Negotiations are still in progress between the Herring Industry Board and the Russian agents.

Mr. Boothby

If canned salmon and canned crab enter into this business, will my hon. Friend point out to the Ministry of Food that the British people are very keen on both canned salmon and canned crab?

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that fishermen in the West of Scotland are being refused insurance benefit on the grounds that they are seasonal workers, and that, if this goes on, there will be no fishermen to catch the herring for the Soviet?

Mr. J. Grimond

Will the hon. Gentleman impress upon his right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade that it is very necessary to find a bigger outlet for cured herring before the summer season starts?