asked the Minister of Agriculture why he refused to grant an interview to, and to receive representations from, the appointed Committee of the National Association of Fishery Boards before introducing the River Boards Bill, particulars of which have been sent him; and if he will make a statement.

Officials of my right hon. Friend's Department discussed the Government's proposals with representatives of the Association in May, 1945. The matters which the Association proposed to raise last April did not involve any new questions of policy and my right hon. Friend did not consider that any useful purpose would be served by receiving a deputation at that stage. He is, however, seeing representatives from the Association next Thursday.

Will the hon. and learned Gentleman convey to his right hon. Friend the question why, in view of the importance of this matter, he did not have the most open discussion with the authorities; and, further, can he say when the Government will stop giving decisions from Whitehall and not consulting experts in the matter at all?

I do not accept the implication of the latter part of the supplementary question. As I said in answer to the Question, discussions did take place.

Not full discussions.