§ 35. Mr. Willeyasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation on what grounds he has decided that the Roker Volunteer Life Brigade shall not be allowed to use rescue rockets for drills.
§ Mr. HayThere has been a delay in the supply of rescue rockets for the use of Her Majesty's Coastguard and the Life Saving Brigades and Companies, but further supplies are expected in July. This has made it prudent to stop practice firings at drills for the time being. Existing stocks are ample for operational needs.
§ Mr. WilleyI am much obliged to the hon. Gentleman for that reply. Is he aware that his Department apparently has caused the mistaken view to be taken that this has been due to economy? Is he aware that the explanation could well serve a useful purpose in ensuring that the initiative and public spirit of these volunteers are not discouraged?
§ Mr. HayI welcome the opportunity of paying tribute to the volunteers to whom the hon. Member refers and of 1230 saying that the last batch in supply was found to be faulty, which was the reason for this temporary breakdown. As I have said, by July we hope that things will be back to normal.