HC Deb 14 March 1917 vol 91 cc1128-9W
Colonel M'CALMONT

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether, in order to encourage owners of small yachts and fishermen who own boats fitted with auxiliary motors to maintain a supply of fish, he can arrange that a sufficient supply of motor spirit shall be at the disposal of such persons?

Mr. PROTHERO

So far as England and Wales are concerned, an arrangement has been in operation since last summer under which all applications for petrol for fishing boats are made through the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries on a special form containing a declaration by the fisherman that "the petrol is required for, and will be used exclusively for,bonâ fide commercial fishing." The Board, having satisfied themselves that the applicant is a bonâ fide fisherman, transmit the application with their recommendation to the Petrol Control Committee. The Committee issues its licence to the fisherman for the amount recommended by the Board. The arrangement has worked quite satisfactorily, and no serious difficulties or delays have arisen. I am unable to say what arrangements are in operation as regards Scotland and Ireland, but there appears to be no reason why similar provision should not be made in those countries.