§ Sir W. Smilesasked the Minister of Food if he is aware that Ulster ports were closed to fishing on 13th, 14th 15th, 19th, 22nd and 29th March and 4th and 5th April; that on days when boats were allowed to fish they were usually restricted to only 30 boxes of fish per boat; and if he is now in a position to allow more fish to be landed.
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§ Sir B. Smith:The answer to the first and second parts of the Question is "Yes, Sir." The restrictions were self-imposed by the fishermen in order to cope with the glut of whiting, but they have my approval in so far as they avoid dumping or condemnations which might result because of the limited demand for this fish in both Northern Ireland and Great Britain, and because of the difficulties in transporting or preserving it. I am anxious, however, to see the fleet more fully utilised and am ready to consider any practicable steps towards this end.