§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he is satisfied with the financial return which the Portavogie fishermen have been receiving during the past six months for their catch; how this compares with the profit made by the wholesaler; what steps are proposed to protect the fishermen against unfair competition from outside the Province; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesThe United Kingdom Government are considering extending the scheme which provides temporary assistance to the fishing industry on a daily rate subsidy basis and which is due to expire on 30th June. Recent fish prices are among the factors being taken into account. There is no information available on which to compare the profits of fishermen and fish wholesalers in Northern Ireland. I am not aware that Northern Ireland fishermen have to face any unfair competition.