§ Mr. HinchliffeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) if he will make compulsory the provision of lifeguards in coastal areas frequented by holiday-makers; [14785]
(2) if he will make the provision of coastal lifeguards and beach safety procedures a statutory duty of local authorities; [14786]
(3) if he will establish a central body to control and standardise the provision of coastal lifeguards and coastal safety procedures. [14788]
§ Mr. Nicholas BakerThe Government acknowledge the considerable efforts of voluntary bodies, such as the Royal Life Saving Society and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents which encourage the provision of coastal lifeguards and coastal safety procedures; and the efforts of beach operators, including local authorities in coastal areas, to improve beach safety. We particularly welcome the provision of appropriately trained lifeguards and the introduction of beach safety procedures. However, we are not presently persuaded that it is necessary for these matters to be regulated by statute or by a Government-appointed central body.