HC Deb 11 November 1975 vol 899 cc577-8W
Mr. Trotter

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether in considering the level of future aid to the fishing industry, he will take into account the additional costs incurred by the industry in survey fees, alterations, new equipment, additional slippage and loss of fishing time as a result of the Safety Provisions Rules 1975; and what is his estimate of the likely additional costs in each of the next five years.

Mr. Bishop

Full account is taken of all the economic factors when considering the need for aid. Wherever possible safety surveys requiring inspection of the vessel out of the water will be combined with the need for the vessel to be slipped, when it will be for operational reasons. On this basis remedial works, if any, will frequently be inseparable from those for improvement and maintenance. It is impracticable to forecast such costs on an industry-wide basis.

Mr. Robert Hughes

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what consideration he has given to the publication of a White Paper on the fishing industry.

Mr. Warren

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what consideration he is giving to the publication of a White Paper on the United Kingdom fishing policy.

Mr. Bishop

At this stage, before we know the outcome of the United Nations Law of the Sea Conference and of the reappraisal of the common fisheries policy, it would be premature to publish a White Paper.

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