§ 44. Sir F. Medlicottasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the large number of people who have been drowned at an early stage of the present holiday season; and if he will consider the introduction of arrangements which will necessitate local authorities providing more efficient life-saving facilities on all beaches, rivers, and canals coming within their areas or under their jurisdiction.
§ Mr. BevinsMy right hon. Friend has seen with great regret reports in the Press of a number of fatal accidents by drowning, but he does not think that there is a case for amending the existing powers of local authorities to provide life-saving 1023 appliances. He is sure that they are well aware of their responsibilities in this matter.
§ Sir F. MedlicottIs not my hon. Friend aware that all too often the facilities seem to consist of little more than a lifebelt on the promenade and a man in a rowing-boat? Could we not save a great many lives if we had a more positive policy, taking an example, perhaps, from the magnificent arrangements there are on the Australian beaches?
§ Mr. BevinsThis is a matter for the local authorities. Under the Public Health Acts, they may provide life-saving appliances wherever they think fit in bathing areas, but if my hon. Friend has any instances where he thinks that those powers are not being adequately used, my right hon. Friend will gladly take up the matter.
§ Mr. G. R. MitchisonIn view of the accidents that occur, would not the Parliamentary Secretary and his right hon. Friend call the attention of the authorities to the need for life-saving arrangements at this sort of place?
§ Mr. BevinsI am perfectly willing to consider that.
Mr. G. WilsonIs my hon. Friend aware that in Cornwall there are a number of life-saving associations operating in exactly the same way as in Australia?