asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will reconsider the proposal to reduce the scientific staff employed at the Torry research station in Aberdeen, in view of the services which these persons render to the Scottish fishing industry both offshore and onshore; and if he will make a statement.

I am still considering the draft report of the Rayner scrutiny of MAFF fisheries research and development and the recommendations in it, a number of which concern the Torry research station. The views of representatives of the fishing industry have been sought and I shall take all the comments received into account in reaching decisions.