Medical Aid and Life-Saving

HC Deb 27 July 1953 vol 518 cc79-80W

52. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Minister of Transport what improvements have been made during the last three years in the regulations relating to the summoning and to the providing of necessary medical and surgical aid by means of radio-telephony, telegraphy and otherwise, for persons at sea in British fishing vessels.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Masters of fishing and other vessels at sea requiring medical or surgical advice may obtain it through coast radio stations, 11 of which maintain continuous watch in the United Kingdom. In accordance with the International Radio Regulations, these messages receive priority over all calls other than those from ships in distress. There has been no change in the arrangements during the past three years. I am at present preparing revised scales of medicines and medical stores to be carried by different classes of fishing boats. A new and revised edition of the Ship Captain's Medical Guide will also be available soon.

54. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Minister of Transport what steps he is taking to secure that the latest scientific discoveries are being fully used for life-saving, life boats and signalling, with a view to minimising the risks to which mariners are exposed.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

My Department keep in close touch on all matters affecting safety of life at sea with the organisations which represent the shipping industry, with manufacturers of equipment and with the other Government Departments concerned. They are always ready to examine carefully suggestions from any source which may lead to greater safety. In a number of respects higher standards were introduced in the Rules which came into force last November to give effect to the International Convention on Safety of Life at Sea, 1948.

58. Mr. Callaghan

asked the Minister of Transport if he will set up a committee to review the adequacy of present arrangements for searching and assisting vessels in distress around the British Isles.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

In my view this matter can best be dealt with by discussions between the Departments directly concerned and I have arranged accordingly. Other interested organisations will be consulted as necessary.