HC Deb 27 February 1951 vol 484 cc1887-8
15. Mr. Geoffrey Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for War in what circumstances the Royal Army Service Corps' general service launch "Cassandra" was lost in the Bristol Channel on 30th January, 1951, while in tow of the Royal Army Service Corps' vessel "Sir W. Campbell"; whether a crew were on board the "Cassandra" at the time of the mishap; and what was the financial loss incurred.

Mr. Strachey

The "Cassandra" was being towed by the Royal Army Service Corps' vessel "Sir W. Campbell" from Falmouth to Menai Bridge. The weather deteriorated and the master of the towing vessel attempted to make for sheltered waters. Unfortunately, the "Cassandra" sank before these could be reached. There was no crew on board at the time of the mishap. The estimated financial loss is some £400.

Mr. Wilson

Does not the Secretary of State agree that this vessel had been in Falmouth for a considerable time? If it could not have been repaired locally, could it not have been taken under tow at a more favourable time of the year than the middle of January?

Mr. Strachey

I suppose that the authorities miscalculated the weather conditions. That might happen.