HC Deb 13 February 1961 vol 634 cc910-1
13. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food why he is represented on the liaison committee which has been set up in connection with the Polaris base at Holy Loch.

Mr. Vane

My right hon. Friend is not represented on the liaison committee, nor has he any responsibility in the area.

The Ministry's scientific staff have, however, been using their expert knowledge to help the Departments concerned and the Committee.

Mr. Hughes

Can the Minister explain why the name of his Department is on the list issued by the Admiralty and tell us what this scientific committee will do there? Obviously it has some connection with his Department. Is the Committee going to investigate the possibility of radio-activity from the fish? Will he give a guarantee that if there is any damage to the fish, fishermen in the Clyde area will be fully compensated?

Mr. Vane

Fish is one thing; in order to get the main information he seeks, he should address a Question to my hon. Friend the Civil Lord.

Mr. Rankin

Is he is charge of fish now?