§ 18. Mr. Wallasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will now make a statement on his Department's review of the fishing industry.
§ Mr. PeartI am not yet in a position to add to the Answer given to the hon. Member on 28th February.—[Vol. 759, c. 1404–5.]
§ Mr. WallWill the right hon. Gentleman undertake to make a statement on this long delayed review before the Whitsun Recess? Is he aware that we shall want to debate this subject separately from the usual debate on the White Paper on the herring subsidy?
§ Mr. PeartI appreciate the need for an early statement. I have been having meetings with representatives of the industry. I am anxious to make a statement as early as possible.
§ Mr. McNamaraMay I press on my right hon. Friend the urgent need for the review to be published, since there is tremendous uncertainty in the industry and a threat to employment in Hull? There is great anxiety amongst fishermen lest trawelers have to be laid up.
§ Mr. PeartI am aware of this concern and I am anxious that the results of the review, which we have been awaiting for some time, shall be published as soon as possible and that we shall be able to take what steps are necessary. But I cannot announce a date yet.
§ Sir C. OsborneIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that, in Grimsby, genuine fears are being expressed that many trawlers will have to be withdrawn from the industry because it is unprofitable? It is not only the trawler owners who are complaining but the men, who are frightened of losing their jobs. Will he do something quickly?
§ Mr. PeartI am aware of the problems. As I have said, I have held meetings with representatives of the industry and they have given me details. I must look carefully at the review and I cannot announce it yet.
§ Mr. James JohnsonIs my right hon. Friend aware that sensational statements have been made at Hull by some leaders 353 of the industry to the effect that 30 vessels may be laid up? This is causing great anxiety. Can my right hon. Friend give an assurance that he is constantly in touch with leaders of the industry?
§ Mr. PeartI had a meeting recently with leaders of the industry on this matter and I am aware of all the difficulties.
§ Mr. GodberThis is a serious matter, as is evidenced by the questions from both sides of the House. The right hon. Gentleman must be aware of the concern in the industry. May we have a firm promise of a statement soon? We should have it before the Easter Recess but at any rate will the right hon. Gentleman make it as soon as possible afterwards so as to try to alleviate some of the axieties and deal with the problems?