§ Q116. Dr. Godmanasked the Prime Minister what assessment Her Majesty's Government have made of the implications for the viability of the United Kingdom fishing industry of the proposed extension to larger fishing vessels of liability for light dues; what assessment has been made of the impact on the merchant fleet of the proposed 14 per cent. increase in dues; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterMy right hon. Friend will be holding discussions shortly with the fishing industry about the implications of extending light dues liability to its larger vessels. Light dues are typically a small fraction of ships operating costs. Less than 10 per cent. of dues are paid by United Kingdom registered ships.