§ Mr. Awberyasked the Secretary of State for Air if he is aware of the work performed recently by the rescue teams of the Royal Air Force stations; how many times they have been called to assist people in danger; and if he will take steps to extend the scope of this life-saving service.
Mr. WardDuring 1958 mountain rescue teams from Royal Air Force stations in this country were called upon to help on 29 occasions. Maritime search and rescue helicopters were called upon on 173 occasions. Although they assist anyone who may be in danger whenever possible, their primary purpose is the rescue of aircrew and the numbers are at present large enough for this.