§ 15. Mr. Wolrige-Gordonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has any evidence of the demand for adequate training courses in the fishing industry being in excess of supply; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MonroI have no reason to think that the facilities for courses leading to certificates of competency are inadequate. A number of applications by fishermen for maintenance grants have had to be rejected by the Scottish Committee of the White Fish Authority through lack of funds. These grants are met from the authority's general levy on the white fish industry, and it is for the authority, in consultation with the industry, to determine what funds should be made available for the purpose.
§ Mr. Wolrige-GordonWhile appreciating the full nature of my hon. Friend's reply, and that the Government are aware that training for fishermen is in short supply because of the lack of funds for maintenance grants, may I ask my hon. Friend whether he is conscious of the fact that there are problems in the industry about an increased levy since so many sections of it already support other training boards? What can be done to improve the situation in time?
§ Mr. MonroI appreciate my hon. Friend's interest, and my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State for Home Affairs and Agriculture is in touch with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Employment about the possible implications of training in the industry. I cannot say more at this stage.