HC Deb 22 April 1970 vol 800 c95W
41. Sir F. Maclean

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland upon what economic information the decision was based to impose a levy on the shellfish industry while withholding a subsidy.

Mr. Buchan:

The shellfish industry has hitherto benefited from the work of the White Fish Authority, including the provision of grants and loans for vessels, loans for co-operatives and processing plants, research and development, without contributing to the cost of the Authority. The levy represents rather less than 1 per cent. of the average wholesale price of shellfish and is not related in any way to the question of subsidy.