§ Dr. John A. Cunninghamasked the Secretary of State for Trade whether there 60W has been any reduction in the total number of hours worked by the auxiliary Coastguard service on the Cumbrian coast; if a reduction is currently under consideration; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Clinton DavisThe hours worked by auxiliary Coastguards in Cumbria in 1975 were approximately the same as in 1974, being of the order of 17,000. Figures now available show, however, that there was a considerable reduction in hours worked in the last quarter of 1975 as compared with the earlier part of the year. As I stated in my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Kingston upon Hull, Central (Mr. McNamara) on 18th December 1975, my Department has been looking into the hours worked by auxiliaries to ensure that all are essential to maintain the service at the optimum level. Watchkeeping work fluctuates with the degree of casualty risk, but I am taking steps to ensure that the hours worked by auxiliaries on the Cumbrian coast are commensurate with the long-term needs of the search and rescue service. I would add that the number of Coastguard stations there has remained unchanged for 10 years, none is due to be closed, and the number of auxiliaries increased by 12 in 1975.