HC Deb 10 March 1980 vol 980 cc437-8W
Mr. Prescott

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he was first informed of the possible financial collapse of the Hull Fishing Vessel Owners' Company; and what action he has taken.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

Representatives of the association expressed to my right hon. Friend on 12 December 1979 their concern that the organisation could face the prospect of liquidation in 1980. Their request for urgent financial assistance has been thoroughly considered, but the Government did not feel able to bring forward measures to assist the association in advance of decisions about proposals for aid from other sectors of the industry.