HC Deb 31 July 1980 vol 989 c1731
Q4. Mr. Brotherton

asked the Prime Minister if she will list her official engagements for Thursday 31 July.

The Prime Minister

I refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I gave earlier.

Mr. Brotherton

Will my right hon. Friend devote some time today to considering the plight of the fishing industry? Bearing in mind that in two World Wars it was from the fishing fleet that the vast majority of our minesweeping personnel was drawn, does not she agree that the survival of the fishing industry is not only a question of the survival of an industry but also one of national defence?

The Prime Minister

I do indeed pay tribute to the work of the fishermen, both in wartime and in peacetime. I agree with what my hon. Friend has said. The Government are now considering the industry's case for aid and will be making a further statement shortly.

Mr. Joseph Dean rose

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Mr. Marlow rose

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Mr. Speaker

Order. I have already received notice of two points of order. I normally take points of order at the end of statements. It is just as well to have the same rhythm each day.