HC Deb 14 February 1962 vol 653 cc1286-7
14. Mr. Awbery

asked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that the orange red flares used by Russian trawlers to communicate with each other, and the red flare distress signals, are almost indistinguishable from a distance, and that this resemblance has been the cause of British lifeboats being called out on useless journeys; and if he will make representations with a view to effecting a change.

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

I have seen reports that Russian trawlers use orange red flares for communications purposes, but they have not been substantiated. The most recent case which was reported in the Press turned out to have been caused by a distress rocket from a British lobster vessel whose engine had temporarily broken down.

Mr. Awbery

Is the Minister aware that we do not appreciate the work of these lifeboatmen as much as we ought? Is he aware that although we are all glad of the good work they are doing, we do not want them to be called out unnecessarily? If by the use of flares which are so much alike at a distance there is a danger that these men might be called out unnecessarily, why not, by mutual arrangement with the countries concerned, change the colour of the signals? That would obviate the necessity of their being called out unnecessarily in future. Perhaps the Minister could arrange to have this matter placed on the agenda of the Conference which is taking place next month?

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

I do not think we could do that, because the Conference is on the subject of oil pollution. We should, of course, make representations if we thought that other countries were infringing the accepted custom that red flares are a sign of danger for those at sea on their lawful occasions. I entirely associate myself with what the hon. Member has said about the good work of the lifeboat service, but I must point out that it is the practice of Her Majesty's Coastguard and the lifeboat service to interpret any unusual signals at sea as distress signals because they would rather go on a number of fruitless journeys than miss one genuine call.