HC Deb 15 December 1976 vol 922 cc1514-5
16. Mr. Sproat

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he next intends to hold meetings with representatives of the fishing industry.

Mr. Hugh D. Brown

My right hon. Friend and I have met the industry on a number of issues in recent months, and will continue to do so whenever the need arises.

Mr. Sproat

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that when he next meets the fishing industry its representatives will tell him that they have no faith in any quota system that may be brought forward by the EEC, because quota schemes have always resulted in British fishermen getting a raw deal? Will he give a guarantee that any interim arrangements brought in by the EEC in the next four weeks will not become permanent arrangements?

Mr. Brown

The interim agreement is, as it implies, an interim arrangement. I suggest that the hon. Gentleman should wait to see whether we need an interim regime in the first place. As for any assurance, there will need to be a longer-term policy to give some degree of stability and hope to the industry as a whole.

The hon. Gentleman will know that quota systems are difficult to administer. He should not underestimate—and occasionally should give credit for—the work of the herring fishermen and those who catch haddock, and their successful attempts to operate a quota system.

Mr. Corrie

When the Minister meets the fishermen, will he ask them whether they are in favour of any boats that are required being built in British shipyards?

Mr. Brown

I do not think that the hon. Gentleman was in the Chamber when I replied in detail to a question on that topic. Certain Scottish shipyards will be considered if further orders are required to be placed for protection vessels.

Mr. Watt

Will the Minister meet the industry before the end of the year, and will he be able to spell out the new arrangements that will operate from 1st January?

Mr. Brown

If there is any need to meet the industry, I shall be available. I appreciate that there is not much time to undertake detailed discussions, but my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary made clear at a recent meeting of the Council of Ministers that we cannot expect to agree to interim arrangements that do not take our requirements into account or protect the interests of our fishermen. If some arrangement is proposed requiring consultation with the industry, that can be arranged.

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