§ 108. Mr. Dribergasked the Minister of Food what further arrangements have now been made for the more effective marketing and distribution of sprats caught by fishermen from Tollesbury and other places on the East coast; and what is his present policy in regard to the import of canned brisling.
Dr. HillAs regards the marketing and distribution of sprats for human consumption, there is nothing I can add at present to the last part of the reply which my right hon. and gallant Friend gave to the hon. Member on 15th December.
As regards surplus sprats, I am sending the hon. Member a copy of an announcement made by the White Fish Authority on 15th December of an arrangement with the Herring Industry Board under which surplus sprats landed at ports on the Thames Estuary north of the river will 24W be accepted for conversion into oil and meal during the present season.
Canned brisling may be imported privately, but supplies from non-Commonwealth sources are subject to quota restrictions.
§ 111. Mr. Dribergasked the Minister of Agriculture what further steps have now been taken to assist the fishermen of Tollesbury in their difficulties and to prevent the waste of large potential catches of sprats.
§ Sir T. DugdaleI would refer the hon. Member to the reply given today by the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food. I understand that the market for sprats for canning has revived, but the Herring Industry Board's offer to accept unsold surpluses at certain ports,, should they occur, remains open.