§ 28. Mr. Bakerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans:le has, in co-operation with the White Fish Authority, for market research into the retailing of white fish.
§ Mr. HoyMy Department is meeting half the cost of the White Fish Authority's programme of economic research, which includes studies of retailing.
§ Mr. BakerWould the hon. Gentleman not agree that, in view of the savage cut in the white fish and herring subsidies for the ensuing year, it is essential to press on with this project with a view to giving better returns to fishermen as quickly as possible?
§ Mr. HoyQuite obviously, I disagree with the first part of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question, but we will debate it later. As to the latter part, we have always believed that proper marketing would bring better results, not only to those who catch and sell fish but to the consumers as well.
Mr. John.HallWould the hon. Gentleman agree that the White Fish Authority has been in existence long enough to have conducted half a dozen market researches? Does he really think that the White Fish Authority is making a worthwhile contribution to the industry?
§ Mr. HoyI think that the White Fish Authority has done a fairly good job; and I 'think that under the present Chairman this job has been tackled. I cannot be held responsible for what went on in the years prior to his taking over.