HC Deb 27 October 1965 vol 718 c145
29. Mr. Wall

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement about his discussion with the White Fish Authority about a statutory minimum price scheme.

The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. Fred Peart)

I have asked the Authority for further information in support of their request for Exchequer assistance for a scheme.

Mr. Wall

Is the Minister aware that the White Fish Authority has recently criticised the Government for their delay in reaching a decision? Can the Minister say whether he intends to introduce a statutory minimum scheme, and if so, when he is going to give us details?

Mr. Peart

The hon. Member knows the details about this. Actually if one reads the speech of the Chairman of the Authority carefully I would not call it a criticism. He did say in his speech that the present time was an awkward time for seeking such assistance.