§ 47. Mr. Fellasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will make a statement on the security measures taken in relation to the Polish trawler "Czajk," which grounded on the Norfolk coast on Saturday, 6th November.
§ Major Lloyd-GeorgeIt would not be in the public interest to describe security arrangements. I have received full reports on this incident and am satisfied that all action appropriate in the circumstances was taken.
§ Mr. FellIs my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that some people in Norfolk are a little concerned about this matter because the trawler came ashore in the early hours of the morning when there was no gale and visibility was a mile, and she came ashore at a very remote place? Her boat was supposed to have been washed away and that came ashore six miles away also at a very remote place. There is some feeling that our security measures might be strengthened.
§ Major Lloyd-GeorgeIf any suggestion is prevalent that something should have been done sooner, that is a matter for the Minister of Transport, who is responsible for the coastguards. My information is that the ship went ashore at about 1 a.m., and that the police and Customs had her under observation after seven o'clock. If there is any question of failure to report, my hon. Friend had better address a Question to the Minister of Transport.