§ 46. Mr. Wolrige-Gordonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the reason for the increasing scarcity of local herring; to what extent this can be remedied by the extension of United Kingdom limits from three to 12 or 15 miles; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MaclayI am advised that the scarcity of herring off the North-East of Scotland is due mainly to natural causes. Most drift net fishing for herring by Scottish fishermen off the north-east coast is carried on much more than 12 or 15 miles away from the coast and I doubt if an extension of fishery limits would make any significant difference in, that area.
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§ 47. Mr. Wolrige-Gordonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to deal with the continuing scarcity of Scottish herring and the consequent difficulties of the shore-based industries, particularly canners, curers and marinators, which depend on regular supplies.
§ Mr. MaclayI am advised that the scarcity of herring off the coast of Scotland is due mainly to natural causes. The Government assist the herring fishermen by subsidies, grants and loans and by research. In addition the statutory minimum price rules permit canners, curers and marinators to buy herring, when available, at lower prices than some other users.