§ 15. Mr. Randallasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he intends to publish the outcome of his Department's study into freezer vessel licences for pelagic fishing.
§ Mr. GummerI hope that it will be possible to make an anouncement in the near future.
§ Mr. RandallIs the Minister aware that the inordinate delay in publishing the findings of his review has seriously impeded investment in, and the restructuring of, the British fleet? Will he tell the House whether he agrees, in principle, that the use of freezers in pelagic fishing could result in considerable improvements in efficiency and cost-effectiveness? Does he agree that the early construction of new freezer vessels could provide much needed orders for our very hard-pressed shipbuilding industry?
§ Mr. GummerI think it is very important that the British fishing industry should make the most of the opportunities that it has under the common fisheries policy and which are much to its advantage. That is why I want to get the right answer, and that is why we are seeking an answer. I hope that I can give the hon. Gentleman a reply soon.