HC Deb 22 January 1969 vol 776 cc462-3
10. Mr. Wall

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the proposed reorganisation of the deep sea fishing fleet.

Mr. Hoy

The discussions which the Industrial Reorganisation Corporation is having with the interests concerned are continuing, but my right hon. Friend is not in a position to make any statement

Mr. Wall

When does the hon. Gentleman hope to be able to make it? Is Government participation in any merger intended? Do the discussions also include the distributing side of the various firms as well as the catchment side?

Mr. Hoy

It would be inadvisable for my right hon. Friend to make any comment until he has proposals from the people at present in consultation. It will be for them to make a report as soon as they can reach agreement or otherwise.

Mr. James Johnson

Will my hon. Friend take into account the fact that the Monopolies Commission some time ago turned down mergers on a large scale? Is he aware that there are many excellent small family firms which are doing a first-class job?

Mr. Hoy

I think that we are all aware of the result of the action taken by the Monopolies Commission. On the other hand, it would be wrong for my right hon. Friend to make any comment about proposals he has not yet seen. We are well aware that there are small firms in the industry whose interests must also be considered.