§ 42. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation at what points on Britain's coast helicopters are always available for saving life at sea; and what proposals he has to extend this development in air-sea rescue work.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterRoyal Naval and Royal Air Force helicopters are stationed at Anthorn, Brawdy, St. Mawgan, Culdrose, Gosport, Ford, Thornaby, Lossiemouth and Eglinton. There are also helicopters at the United States Air Force base at Manston. As I indicated in reply to a Question by the hon. Member on 8th December, these helicopters are provided in the first place to meet Service requirements, and their use for rescue work is therefore subject both to Service arrangements and to the operational limitations of helicopters of the type now in service. As more helicopters become available, the Royal Air Force plan to station them at Chivenor, Thorney Island, Martlesham Heath, Horsham St. Faith, North Coates, Leuchars, and possibly one or two other places. This will be done as rapidly as possible.
§ Mr. DoddsDoes the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that it is very difficult to take in all the names he has mentioned? Does he appreciate the great importance of helicopter sea rescue as a complement to the lifeboats? Is he attempting through his own Ministry to encourage the putting into operation of more of these services? Will he see that the matter is well publicised as one of great importance?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterI think that the hon. Gentleman should be encouraged by the increased provision that is being made.