§ 3. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he will specify the nature and extent of the supply difficulties which are delaying and frustrating the supply to owners of Scottish fishing vessels who have ordered rubber life-rafts; what steps he is taking to resolve those difficulties; and when such rubber life-rafts will be supplied to all vessels which by the rule which came into operation on 1st October, 1956, are required to carry such life-rafts.
§ Mr. WatkinsonThe shortage of life-rafts is due to the inability of one manufacturer to fulfil, as yet, all the orders he has received. I am informed that 173 Scottish fishing vessels are still unequipped. Rafts are, however, available from other sources and my surveyors, when inspecting fishing boats, are now advising owners that if their vessels are not equipped within twenty-one days they will be detained.
§ Mr. HughesDoes the Minister realise that this is a matter of very great importance because these rubber rafts were used and resulted in saving many lives and that if they are not forthcoming it may result in many tragedies in the future? Will the right hon. Gentleman see that the utmost expedition is used in supplying these rafts?
§ Mr. WatkinsonYes, Sir. I am very grateful to the hon. and learned Member 410 for raising this matter, because there is no better way of saving life at sea than by the use of these rafts.
§ Captain DuncanIs my right hon. Friend aware that although at the beginning there was a difficulty in getting supplies of these rubber rafts, they are, in fact, now coming forward? I know that in one fishing port in my constituency they have been delivered.