HC Deb 28 February 1968 vol 759 cc1404-5
39. Mr. Wall

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the progress of his review of the fishing industry.

Mr. Hoy

Our study of the outcome of the review is proceeding and we have promised a statement as soon as possible. I hope that it will be very soon.

Mr. Wall

Will the Minister bear in mind that the fishing industry is undergoing difficult conditions and its uncertainty is. increased from failure to know how the Government will react to the review? Will he ensure that the review recommendations will be reported to the House and debated?

Mr. Hoy

I cannot say anything about a debate, but there will be a report. We will speed it up as much as possible.

Mr. James Johnson

Is there any possibility of having the statement before the annual debate?

Mr. Hoy

There is always a dispute about whether the debate should take place on the Orders or later on the statement when we normally discuss the fishing industry as a whole. I can certainly give the assurance that it will come before then.