HC Deb 15 October 1990 vol 177 cc704-5W
Mr. Nicholas Bennett

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what financial support has been given for fish processing in Milford Haven since 1979.

Mr. David Hunt

Since 1979 regional selective assistance of £40,000 has been provided for two fish processing projects in Milford Haven.

Mr. Nicholas Bennett

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what financial support has been given to individual trawler companies and combines operating from Milford Haven since 1979; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Hunt

Since 1979, grants totalling £489,000 have been provided by the Welsh Office and the European Commission for six commercial fishing projects in Milford Haven. In addition the Sea Fish Industry Authority, acting on behalf of the Government, provides grants and loans for the construction of new fishing vessels and improvements to existing vessels. For Wales as a whole, the authority has since 1979 provided £1,653,000 in grants and loans for 251 projects.

I place a great deal of importance on the need to sustain and develop a successful sea fishing industry in Wales, and am pleased that practical support is being provided to commercial fishermen.

Mr. Nicholas Bennett

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received about the fishing industry in Milford Haven since June 1987.

Mr. David Hunt

During the period in question, Welsh Office Ministers and officials have received numerous representations on a wide range of issues relating to the fishing industry in Milford Haven. My hon. Friend did bring in to see me on 20 September senior representatives of the industry and I am carefully considering the arguments he and they put forward.

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