HC Deb 12 July 1920 vol 131 cc1928-30
13. Colonel BURN

asked the President of the Board of Trade if any decision has been arrived at as to marking the wrecks off the South Devon coast; and is he aware that the trawlers are losing much gear owing to the impossibility of keeping clear of these unmarked wrecks?

Sir R. HORNE

Under the Merchant Shipping Acts, harbour authorities and general lighthouse authorities are empowered to deal only with wrecks which, in their opinion, are or are likely to become obstructions to navigation or to life-boats. There is no power to deal with them if they interfere only with trawling operations. I am informed by the Trinity House that all the wrecks off the South Devon coast with which they are empowered to deal have been marked or dispersed.

Colonel BURN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, as a result of these wrecks not being marked, the fishermen have suffered serious loss? Is he aware that only one or two of the chief wrecks have been marked, and that the removal of the others would be of assistance to the food supplies of the country?

Sir R. HORNE

I realise the difficulty to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers, but we have no power to mark these wrecks merely because they interfere with trawling. Of course, if they were marked it would mean having permanent marks both night and day.

Sir A. SHIRLEY BENN

Will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to get the necessary power, as these are wrecks caused by the War?

Mr. BILLING

Is it not a matter for the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries?

Major Sir BERTRAM FALLE

Cannot these wrecks be blown up?

Sir R. HORNE

I asked the question which my hon. Friend has put to me, and I learn that the blowing up of these wrecks is much more likely to cause great disturbance to trawling than if they are left alone.

Mr. A. M. SAMUEL

Is it not a fact that those who have studied the question say that these wrecks, though they may interfere with trawling to some extent, provide breeding places for the fish, and thus help to increase the supply?

Sir R. HORNE

I recognise the education of my hon. Friend on this matter, and do not compete with it.