HC Deb 23 July 1958 vol 592 cc42-3W
Mr. Edward Evans

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will state the total amount paid in subsidies to the inshore and middle water fishing industries since the inception of the scheme; how this sum is allocated as between the several ports or areas involved in the scheme; and how much money remains to be allocated before the termination of the subsidies.

Mr. John Hare

The total amount authorised by the White Fish and Herring Industries Acts, 1953 and 1957, for payment of the white fish and herring subsidies is £17 million, which may be increased by Order to £19 million. The total amount paid under these Acts to 30th June, 1958, is £12,523,690. The amount still available from 1st July this year is, therefore, £4,476,310, or £6,476,310 if the full amount of £19 million is made available.

Under the Acts of 1953 and 1957, white fish subsidy has been payable since 1st August, 1953, and herring subsidy since 13th May, 1957. The allocation of the total sum of £12,523,690 according to the country of landing is as follows:

England and Wales Scotland Northern Ireland Totals
£ £ £ £
White Fish Subsidy 5,822,322 6,197,952 107,182 12,127,456
Herring Subsidy 105,340 276,322 14,572 396,234
12,523,690

Before 1st August, 1953, white fish subsidy was paid under the authority of the annual Appropriation Acts and the total amount paid in the United Kingdom from its inception on 31st July, 1950, to 31st July, 1953, was £4,952,876.