§ 28. Mr. Wolrige-Gordonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is his policy for the herring drift net fleet; what is his estimate of the optimum number of vessels over the next 12 months; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. StodartThe policy of Her Majesty's Government is to provide reasonable financial support for herring fishing, whether with drift nets or other gear, by way of grants and loans for boats and operating subsidies.
I do not think that a meaningful estimate of the ideal herring drift net fleet can be given because it appears to depend on the season and on the circumstances prevailing and most of the vessels which can be and are used for drift net fishing for herring are also used at other times and with other gear for catching white fish.
§ Mr. Wolrige-GordonIs the Minister aware that, according to the figures from the Secretary of State, the herring drift net fleet diminished from 80 boats to 30 boats in just over two months? How long does he think that the fleet can go on under those circumstances? Is he aware that the only way to provide a basic level at which the fleet may continue to prosper and expand is to ensure a basic level of support for the herring boats which can provide a living wage for the workers?
§ Mr. StodartMy hon. Friend must be aware that most of the drift net fleet are dual-purpose vessels and the majority of the difference between 80 and 30 is represented by those which have turned over to white fish fishing. When the herring markets improve I have no doubt that, as usual, many fishermen will revert to catching herring.
§ Mr. Wolrige-GordonIs my hon. Friend aware that the herring drift net fleet has diminished over the last few years and, naturally, when this has happened, every time fewer boats have gone back to herring drift net fishing? Will my hon. Friend consider this matter?
§ Mr. StodartI am always willing to consider, as I am sure my hon. Friend is aware, every proposition he puts forward.