HC Deb 01 July 1965 vol 715 cc811-2
30. Dr. Wyndham Davies

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science, in view of the fact that in 1963, out of a total of 91 people drowned due to falling overboard or capsizing in small boats 23 were children of school age, if he is satisfied that sufficient expert tuition is being given to children in regard to survival swimming, lifesaving and handling of small boats and canoes; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Denis Howell

I agree that these tragic accidents demonstrate the need for expert tuition. Local education authorities are paying increasing attention to this aspect of education. The number of school swimming baths is increasing and so is the number of children learning swimming including survival swimming and lifesaving. A growing number of local education authorities and other bodies are providing tuition in boating and sailing, and action in emergencies is an essential part of the teaching. I am glad to see that the total number of children who die by drowning each year seems to be falling.

Dr. Davies

Is the Minister satisfied that education authorities are putting sufficient emphasis on safety requirements in boating and all other water activities?

Mr. Howell

I think so, and we specifically drew attention to the matter in the Department's circular entitled "The Sea in Education".

Mr. Alan Williams

Would the Minister bear in mind that in many parts of the country clubs which offer this instruction to youngsters often find that the facilities are under-used because local authorities close them unnecessarily early in the evening?

Mr. Howell

I certainly agree with that, and the Sports Council and I are asking authorities to keep these facilities open for a reasonable period of time.

Mr. Allason

Has the Minister studied the forms of instruction given by the Army and the fact that great importance is placed on the wearing of life jackets? Since the Army insists on life jackets being worn, does the Minister's instructions or advice refer to their importance?

Mr. Howell

That is exactly what the pamphlet which has been circulated by the Department says.