HC Deb 28 April 1955 vol 540 cc1061-2
49. Mr. Donnelly

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will make a further statement on the crisis in the hake fishing industry.

Mr. Nugent

I have nothing to add to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member on 7th April.

Mr. Donnelly

Is the Minister aware that since the present Government took office the fishing fleet at Milford Haven has been more than halved? Has he really no constructive proposal to put forward?

Mr. Nugent

As I told the House on 7th April—and told the hon. Member—we have promoted, with the White Fish Authority, research voyages. We have also promoted international action to meet the position. Further than that it is impossible for anyone to go. One cannot catch fish which are not there.