HC Deb 28 April 1947 vol 436 cc1538-40
Mr. Chetwynd

(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Transport whether he has any statement to make on the tragic loss of the s.s. "Samtampa" which was wrecked on 23rd April off Sker Bay, Glamorgan, and will he state what provisions are being made to help the dependants.

The Minister of Transport (Mr. Barnes)

An inquiry, in accordance with the provisions of the Merchant Shipping Acts, is being ordered into the circumstances attending the tragic loss of this ship during the gale of 23rd April. The inquiry will be held as soon as possible, and the findings will be published. The dependants of the crew of the vessel, all of whom lost their lives, are eligible for compensation under the Workmen's Compensation Acts. I understand that payment of the compensation due will be made as quickly as possible—probably in the course of a few days. In addition, widows' pensions and children's allowances are payable to those eligible under the National Health Insurance and Contributory Pensions Act. I take this opportunity of expressing to the relatives of the crew of this ship, and also of the members of the lifeboat who so gallantly went to their assistance and gave their lives in their attempt to help, the very deep regret of all Members of this House at this disaster, which once again reminds us of the great perils of the sea that our seamen so fearlessly face in the normal discharge of their duties.

Mr. Chetwynd

In associating myself and, I am sure, all Members of the House with the Minister in his expression of sympathy, may I ask him whether the inquiry will be held in public, and whether the Government will consider making any direct grants to the various funds that have been organised to help these dependants?

Mr. Barnes

I do not think that the question of a Government grant arises, but I will look into the matter. With regard to the public inquiry, that will follow the normal procedure under the Shipping Acts.

Commander Maitland

Will there be any compensation for the dependants of the lifeboat crew who were involved in this terrible tragedy?

Mr. Barnes

That is provided for by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. I understand it is quite comparable.

Sir Ronald Ross

In the inquiry, will the question of providing a more powerful rocket with the life-saving apparatus be considered?

Mr. Barnes

That is a matter which the inquiry will bring out.

Mr. David Jones

Will the inquiry pay particular attention to what life-saving apparatus there was on board this ship, including lifeboats and rocket-firing apparatus?

Mr. Barnes

I have already replied to that question in answer to the hon. and gallant Gentleman the Member for Horncastle (Commander Maitland).