HC Deb 21 June 1955 vol 542 cc1114-5
2. Sir R. Boothby

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that difficulties are still being met in finding crews to man the herring fleet; and whether he will cause an inquiry to be made into the working of the present share system, the general question of prices, and the financial structure of the herring industry as a whole, with particular reference to the burden of debt.

The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. J. Henderson Stewart)

My right hon. Friend is aware that in a few cases difficulty is being experienced in finding crews for herring boats, but he has no evidence that this difficulty is general or widespread. I have, however, arranged to pay an early visit to the north-east herring ports to see the position for myself. As regards the second part of the Question, my right hon. Friend has asked the Herring Industry Board for its views on the points referred to.

Sir R. Boothby

In view of the monumental muddle that is now being made of the summer herring fishing, does my hon. Friend realise that the sooner he visits the north-east ports the better?

Mr. Grimond

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that as well as other matters there is also the question of markets? Is he aware that this summer there were much better landings in Shetland, but the people are very concerned that there shall be no confusion, as there was last year, when the port was closed? Can he assure us that there will be a market for the good quality herring which are now being landed?

Mr. Stewart

I do not think that one could give that assurance. The Herring Industry Board is doing all it can to sell larger quantities of fresh herring—which is the right answer to the problem. We should all like to see that and we hope that it may be achieved.

Sir D. McCallum

Is my hon. Friend aware of the difficulty which is being experienced by fishermen on the West Coast in their endeavours to persuade the Herring Industry Board to be more lenient in the question of the repaying of loans? This debt is a very serious burden indeed.

Mr. Stewart

That is not the general experience of the Board. but if my hon. and gallant Friend would give me any special examples I should be glad to look into them.

Mr. Fell

When my hon. Friend is looking at the fishing ports will he also bear in mind the question of seasonal workers in connection with the people who work in the herring fleets?

Mr. Stewart

Yes, Sir.