HC Deb 19 October 1976 vol 917 c414W
36. Mr. McNamara

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what discussions he has had with the fishing industry on the problems of decasualisation; and if he will make a statement

Mr. Harold Walker

Together with other Ministers I recently met representatives of the employers and the Transport and General Workers' Union to discuss an ordered manpower policy for the industry. During the discussions representatives of the British Fishing Federation said that, subject to certain statutory provisions being made, they were ready, despite the uncertainties now facing the industry, to embark upon the road to decasualisation for the trawler industry provided it paid proper regard, not only to the condition of the industry and these uncertainties, but also to the wishes of the fishermen themselves. Further discussions are to take place shortly.