HC Deb 31 May 1956 vol 553 c417
15. Lady Tweedsmuir

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will make a statement on the new White Fish Subsidy Scheme, due to operate from 1st August.

Mr. Amory

Discussions are taking place with the representatives of the trawler owners and with the White Fish Authority with a view to a new White Fish Subsidy Scheme being laid before the House in July.

Lady Tweedsmuir

Will the Minister bear in mind that since he met representatives of the Scottish fishing industry the price of coal has risen again, and that this will have an important bearing on any subsidy for steam vessels, if we are to keep them at sea?

Mr. Amory

Yes. I am aware of that fact. That, of course, is one of the matters which I shall be taking into consideration in the review which is now being made.

Mr. Edward Evans

Can the Minister say whether it is still the policy of the Government to go on with the tapering policy until the subsidy eventually tapers right off?

Mr. Amory

I would ask the hon. Gentleman to wait until this current review has been carried out, when I shall be making a pretty full statement to the House.