HC Deb 28 November 1939 vol 355 cc3-4
Mr. Logan

(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Shipping, whether he can give any information regarding the loss of 22 men on Sunday on the No. 1 Mersey Pilot Boat, and whether he can explain how New Brighton, Hoylake and Rhyl lifeboats were given wrong directions of location of pilot boat?

The Minister of Shipping (Sir John Gilmour)

In the first place, I should like to express my own deep sympathy and also, I am sure, that of the Members of this House with the relatives of the crew who lost their lives in this unfortunate accident. I have not yet received sufficient information about the case to enable me to answer the specific points raised in the question, but inquiries are being pursued and I will communicate with the hon. Member as soon as I am in a position to do so.

Mr. Logan

I take it that the ordinary inquiry will follow. Is that so?

Sir J. Gilmour

Yes, Sir. All my information at the moment is from the Press and certain reports which I have received and until I have a full report I cannot say anything further.