§ MR. E. H. BAYLEY (Camberwell, N.)I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that a Russian barque laden with timber went ashore off Ramsgate on the 27th of May, and that the Ramsgate lifeboat, which is under the control of the Board of Trade, was under repair, having been so for three weeks, only one man being employed on the job; and whether he will take steps to prevent similar delays in future?
§ MR. BRYCEThe Ramsgate lifeboat undergoes an annual overhaul during the summer months, when her services are least likely to be required. This overhaul usually occupies a fortnight, but this period has been exceeded this year, as considerable repairs were found to be necessary. The Russian barque referred to by the hon. Member was in difficulties near the North Sand Head. The Board of Trade tug at once went to her assistance and towed her into Ramsgate Harbour with her crew on board. The Broadstairs lifeboat was also at the scene of the wreck and rendered assistance in connecting the tow-lines.