HC Deb 26 June 1907 vol 176 cc1375-6
MAJOR SEELY (Liverpool, Abercromby)

I beg to ask the Civil Lord of the Admiralty how many coastguard stations have been closed during the last two years; and in how many cases was there a lifeboat station or a rocket apparatus, or both, at the coastguard stations which have been closed.

MR. LAMBERT

Seventy stations and detachments have been abolished since 1st April, 1905. At twenty-five of these stations and detachments there was a rocket apparatus. Lifeboats are not maintained at the coastguard stations, nor are they in charge of the coastguard; but there are lifeboats stationed at nineteen of the places where coastguard stations or detachments have been closed since the date mentioned.

MAJOR ANSTRUTHER-GRAY (St. Andrews Burghs)

Are we to understand that the rocket apparatus is also abolished?

MR. LAMBERT

The rocket apparatus is under the control of the Board of Trade.

MR. CATHCART WASON (Orkney and Shetland)

Is it not a fact that the rocket apparatus is worked by the coastguard?

MR. LAMBERT

No, Sir, not entirely. The rocket apparatus is under the control of the Board of Trade, but by an arrangement with the latter Department it is placed in charge of the coastguard, where the costguard station is conveniently situated for the purpose.

MR. CATHCART WASON

Will the hon. Member make inquiry into the matter?

MR. LAMBERT

There is a Report now before the Board of Admiralty.

MAJOR ANSTRUTHER-GRAY (St. Andrews Burghs)

Are we to understand that the rocket apparatus will be worked at these stations?

MR. LAMBERT

The Board of Trade is responsible.

MAJOR ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

Will they work the apparatus?

MR. LAMBERT

The, hon. Gentleman had better address that question to the President of the Board of Trade.

MAJOR SEELY

Will the Report be laid upon the Table of the House?

MR. LAMBERT

I cannot say that. It is being considered by the Admiralty.

MR. PIKE PEASE (Darlington)

Are any more coastguard stations likely to be closed?

MR. LAMBERT

A pledge was given by the Secretary to the Admiralty that no more stations should be closed until the House of Commons has considered the matter. That pledge will be strictly adhered to.