HC Deb 17 April 1940 vol 359 cc951-2
22. Mr. R. Gibson

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the quays at Greenock Docks have not yet been fenced off; that further casualties took place on Tuesday and Friday of the week before last during the black-out; whether he has had an inspection made of the harbour recently; when the docks will be fenced off from the street during the hours of the black-out; and if he has any statement to make on the subject?

The Minister of Transport (Captain Wallace)

As the hon. and learned Member is no doubt aware, the responsibility for taking measures necessary to secure the safety of harbour users rests with the harbour authority. Approximately two-thirds of the Greenock Harbour undertaking has for many years past been separated from the town by boundary fencing. I have been in communication with the harbour authority regarding the erection of a boundary fencing at the remainder, and I am informed that this is now being done, although at certain places there are physical difficulties owing to the proximity of the harbour boundary to the main thoroughfare of the town.

Mr. Gibson

While I thank the Minister for his interest, is he aware that there will be great disappointment in Greenock about the measures proposed to be taken? Will he keep in mind that this matter has engaged the attention of other Departments, and that there is a strong feeling in Greenock that the deaths that have occurred at the docks have been largely due to the black-out and to the fact that the fencing has been put in the wrong place?

Captain Wallace

I will certainly look into those questions. Perhaps the hon. and learned Gentleman will be good enough to see me afterwards.

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