10. Colonel BURNasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will take immediate steps to replace the gas buoy which was placed to mark the wreck of the "Empress of India" before the War, but which has been removed?
§ The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Long)I have been asked to answer this question. I am advised that this wreck does not constitute a danger to surface navigation, and that this light buoy was placed solely for the benefit of fishermen. It was removed in May, 1915, for the 15 period of the War, and the question of replacing it is now under consideration at the Admiralty.
Colonel BURNIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that that wreck was sunk by the orders of the Admiralty in the best part of the fishing ground, that a great deal of fishing gear has been lost, and that it is vitally necessary to have a gas buoy there, especially in the winter?
§ Mr. LONGNo, Sir; I cannot admit all the suggestions of my hon. and gallant Friend. That is not the only wreck in the neighbourhood by any means. The question of light buoys for wrecks is a very serious one, which we are now considering. I do not think the hon. and gallant Gentleman can establish the fact that the danger to fishing is due to that particular wreck, as there are four more close by.