Fishing Industry

HC Deb 13 July 1981 vol 8 cc792-3

13. Mr. Geraint Howells

asked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement about the state of the Welsh fishing industry.

Mr. Nicholas Edwards

Nearly £350,000 has so far been paid to the Welsh fishing industry to assist full-time commercial fishermen over their current difficulties. The successful negotiation of a common fisheries policy remains a major objective of Government policy.

Mr. Howells

I am grateful to the Secretary of State for his reply. I am sure that he is aware that unemployment in many Welsh coastal towns, particularly in Cardigan, is high. Will he consider spending a great deal of public money to try to revitalise some of these ports on the Welsh coast to the benefit of the fishing industry and the public at large?

Mr. Edwards

Quite a large part of the financial help that the Government have given has gone to smaller coastal fishermen. The hon. Gentleman will be aware of the DBRW's study into the possibilities. No doubt, there will be opportunities to consider the study further. Within the last week or so the Government have issued a consultation paper on inland and coastal fisheries in England and Wales which will give a further opportunity for people to express their views about ways of improving the position.

Mr. Best

Is my right hon. Friend aware that a large sum has recently been made available from the EEC to a seafood factory in Holyhead, in my constituency? Does he agree that this is yet another demonstration of the great benefit accruing to Wales through the United Kingdom being part of the EEC?

Mr. Edwards

I agree with my hon. Friend. I am glad to say that similar help was given to a similar seafood firm in my constituency.