§ 17. Mr. A. M. SAMUELasked the President of the Board of Trade the increase in the number of wireless direction finders installed round the coasts of the British Isles during the year 1930 for the use of shipping?
§ Mr. W. GRAHAMThere was no addition in 2930 to the seven wireless direction finding stations on shore, giving bearings on request. The number of radio beacons from which ships fitted with direction finders can take bearings was increased during 1930 from 12 to 15. An additional beacon came into operation on 1st January, 1931, and five others are in course of construction. In addition, there is one rotating beacon at Orfordness in Suffolk, from which ships fitted with ordinary wireless receiving apparatus can obtain bearings by the use of a stop watch.
§ Mr. SAMUELWhat are the reasons why an increase in installation is not being pushed on more rapidly, in view of the fact that the Merchant Shipping Service think it desirable?
§ Mr. GRAHAMMy information is that progress is being made, but it is a highly technical point, and perhaps my hon. Friend will give me notice on the point.
§ 18. Mr. SAMUELasked the President of the Board of Trade what steps have been, or are being, taken to induce foreign countries to equip their coasts with an increased number of wireless direction finders for the use of shipping?
§ Mr. GRAHAMThe maritime nations fully appreciate the desirability of extending wireless aids to navigation of the nature contemplated by the hon. Member. The matter was the subject of a recommendation by the International Conference on Safety of Life at Sea held in this country in 1929, and the Convention and the recommendations of the Conference have been circulated to all the maritime countries.