HC Deb 18 November 1912 vol 44 cc6-7
10. Mr. CATHCART WASON

asked the Postmaster-General whether certain post offices are fitted with alarms that may be used in cases of shipwreck, and that messages can be sent at any hour of the night calling for assistance; and, if so, if it would be possible to extend the same facilities for summoning medical relief in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.

The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Herbert Samuel)

Telegraph circuits connecting Coastguard stations and lighthouses with post offices in the North of Scotland, the Hebrides, the Orkneys and the Shetlands are often fitted with call bells to arouse the postmaster to summon assistance for vessels in distress. These facilities would be available to summon medical aid to the Coastguard stations and lighthouses.

Mr. CATHCART WASON

May I ask if the privilege referred to would be available to others besides coastguardsmen?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

Yes, if they could get into communication.