§ 44. Mr. Bessellasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will review the system of marketing wet fish, with a view to assisting the growth of the fishing industry.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. James Hoy)The marketing of wet fish is kept under review by the White Fish Authority and the Herring Industry Board, and I am always ready to consider any proposals they may put forward for improving it.
§ Mr. BessellI thank the Minister for that Answer. May I ask whether he is aware of the very considerable decline in the fishing industry, particularly in the West Country and whether he has any proposals for improving the situation generally?
§ Mr. HoyIn reply to the latter part of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question, I would say that the White Fish Authority is about to undertake an economic study of the various aspects of marketing, with Exchequer support. In reply to the first part of his question, I would simply point out that the total value of Cornish landings has increased from £416,000 in 1961 to £537,000 last year.
§ Mr. Peter MillsWill the Minister bear in mind the excellent system of marketing wet fish at Brixham in South Devon which is carried out on a cooperative basis? Will he look into this 1358 and give encouragement to other ports to follow the same pattern?
§ Mr. HoyI had the pleasure of visiting Brixham a few months ago. Loans are available to fishermen's co-operatives and they have worked successfully Sympathetic consideration would be given to those who wished to follow that example.
§ Mr. Scott-HopkinsCan the hon. Gentleman tell the House when he will be in a position to let us know the Government's reaction to Mr. Roy Matthews' proposals regarding the marketing of wet fish?
§ Mr. HoyMr. Roy Matthews has presented some proposals with regard to the industry as a whole. These are being discussed.
§ Mr. Scott-HopkinsHow long will that be?