§ Mr. Sproatasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware of the need to improve the facilities at the major fishing harbours; and what action he proposes.
§ Mr. PriorMy right hon. Friends the Secretary of State for Scotland and the Secretary of State for Wales and I have been considering how to stimulate early action to deal with the dilapidated facilities at the major fishing ports in order to help prepare the industry to benefit from entry into the European Economic Community. We have accordingly decided to raise the rate of grants payable under the Fisheries Act, 1955, for approved development works for the maintenance or development of the fishing industry at the major fishing ports from 20 per cent. to 60 per cent. These grants will be payable for works approved within 12 months and started within 18 months from today.