§ 42. Mr. Clellandasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he had for improving job prospects and the efficiency of the British fishing industry.
§ Mr. GummerThere are signs of increasing confidence within the industry now that the common fisheries policy is firmly established within the enlarged Community. Recent falls in oil prices and increased prices for fish can only serve to improve employment prospects, although the scope for expansion of fishing effort is limited by the opportunities available. Investment in the construction and modernisation of fishing vessels, which is important to the efficiency of the industry, remains at a healthy level with Government assistance totalling over £21 million in the last three years. I am confident that the increased emphasis on the quality and marketing of fish, stimulated by the Sea Fish Industry Authority, will have a lasting impact on the future well-being of the fishing industry.
§ Dr. Godmanasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has any plans to seek to improve standards of training in the United Kingdom fishing industry; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GummerThe Sea Fish Industry Authority seeks to secure continuing improvements in training arrangements. In this it works in collaboration with the Manpower Services Commission and fishing industry training associations.