§ 41. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, in view of the costings investigations into the price of fish which began in 1952, if he can yet make a statement on the conclusions reached.
§ Mr. GodberThe report of the White Fish Authority's inquiry into the costs of distributing white fish was published in March, 1957. The information it provided will, I hope, have helped to dispel 1329 any idea that exorbitant profits are being made in the distribution of fish.
§ Mr. DoddsAre no further investigations taking place into the costings of fish by the White Fish Authority? Is this the completion of five years' study?
§ Mr. GodberI would not say that there are no further investigations taking place or that none will take place. This is a matter for the White Fish Authority to decide on its own initiative, where it thinks necessary.
§ Mr. G. R. HowardIs my hon. Friend aware that, as reported in the Fishing News of 28th February, at a meeting between the British Trawlers' Federation and the fish fryers, it was stated that:
For the 12 months ended September, 1957, prices were higher but costs higher still. … Earnings averaged 73s, a kit and the costs, without allowing for interest, were 75s., so that a loss of 2s. on every kit landed was suffered,I do not think there are any exorbitant prices there.
§ Mr. WilleyCan the hon. Gentleman say what inquiries are taking place? Will he not agree that there is plenty of room for improvement in the distribution of fish?
§ Mr. GodberIf the hon. Gentleman will put down a Question on that point, I shall be happy to answer it.