HC Deb 02 August 1956 vol 557 cc1583-4
32. Mr. J. Howard

asked the Minister of Education if he will authorise a grant to the School of Navigation, through the University of Southampton, in order to compensate the school for the loss of the ketch "Moyana" on her return voyage from Lisbon.

Mr. Vosper

The school receives a direct annual grant from the Ministry. The committee has not yet asked my right hon. Friend for special assistance towards the replacement of the "Moyana," but, if they do so, he will consider their request.

Mr. J. Howard

I thank my hon. Friend for that reply. Is he aware that an encouraging reply would be received with great appreciation by the people of Southampton, whose mayor is launching an appeal for the replacement of the "Moyana," and by people throughout the country who have been stirred by the seamanship and discipline shown by the youthful crew?

Mr. Vosper

I think that the whole House would wish to sympathise in the loss of this vessel and to wish every success to the appeal. If in due course the committee approach my right hon. Friend, he will see what he can do to help.

Dr. King

For the record, may I ask whether the Minister is aware that the cadets of this School of Navigation sailed the ketch "Moyana" on the 700-mile race from Torbay to Lisbon; beat all other competitors in the race and brought the ship within an ace of home before losing it? They brought honour to British education, and is the Minister aware that if he can associate his Department with the replacement of that ship, he will be doing honour to the Ministry?

Mr. Vosper

I accept what the hon. Gentleman says.