HC Deb 21 November 1957 vol 578 cc60-1W
Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that the price of manila seine net ropes has risen continuously since December, 1955, while the price of sisal seine net ropes has remained comparatively steady, that manila seine net ropes are much used by fishermen, and that the continuous increase is without apparent reason and is prejudicial to the fishing industry; and if he will institute an authoritative and expert committee to investigate this anomaly and make recommendations for its removal in the public interest by price control or otherwise.

Sir D. Eccles

The wholesale price of manila hemp rose considerably between December, 1955, and September, 1957, whereas the price of East African sisal fell during this period. The answer to the last part of the Question is "No".