HC Deb 23 July 1969 vol 787 cc1698-9
6. Mr. Costain

asked the President of the Board of Trade what plans he now has to provide a helicopter rescue service on the South Coast of England; and if he will make a statement.

The Minister of State, Board of Trade (Mr. William Rodgers)

There is a wide range of rescue services along the South Coast, including Service helicopters. We have no plans at present to provide a civil helicopter rescue service but we have constantly in mind the need to ensure that facilities are maintained at a high standard.

Mr. Costain

Is the Minister aware that I have a letter from the Ministry of Defence dated 6th May saying that the responsibility is that of the Board of Trade? Now the Minister appears to be saying that the responsibility is that of the Ministry of Defence. How many people must be drowned before Government Departments sort out whose responsibility it is?

Mr. Rodgers

The responsibility is collectively that of the Government. There is no difference of emphasis or opinion here. The hon. Member and the House know about the withdrawal of the Royal Air Force helicopters from Manston. This has created problems. We are looking at them together and in so far as there is a danger of falling short we shall remedy this.

Mr. Hector Hughes

Is my hon. Friend aware that there is already a very useful helicopter rescue service off the South Coast at Brighton? If it is not under his control, will he take it under his control and develop it? It is especially useful during the holiday season.

Mr. Rodgers

I am obliged to my hon. and learned Friend. He is quite right. There are Royal Air Force stations at Thorney Island, in Sussex, and also at Coltishall, in Norfolk. They provide a service, although, of course, this does not adequately cover that part of the coast previously covered from Manston.