§ Mr. Austin Mitchellasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) when he expects to make an announcement about aid for the fishing industry;
(2) what consultations he has had with the fishing industry about aid for the coming year;
(3) what evidence he is seeking from the fishing industry on which to base a decision on aid for the coming year;
(4) what representations he has received seeking the extension of his temporary aid for the fishing industry.
(5) whether he will make it his policy to maintain the temporary support for the fishing industry at least until a European Economic Community fishing settlement is reached.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithMy right hon. Friend and his colleagues with responsibilities for the fishing industry have received a number of representations about the industry's need for further aid. The Government's response will be made known as soon as consideration of these representations and the supplementary information we have obtained from the industry has been completed.
§ Mr. Austin Mitchellasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will estimate how many fishing vessels have been kept at sea by the temporary aid provided by Her Majesty's Government.
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§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithIt is not possible to make an estimate of this kind.