§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make a statement on coastguard provision in Wales(a) currently and (b) after 2001; and if he will list in each case those stations that will be permanently manned. [24479]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonThere are three permanently staffed Coastguard centres in Wales, located at Swansea, Milford Haven and Holyhead.
There are no plans to change Her Majesty's Coastguard provision in Wales, including the 11 Sector Managers and 47 auxiliary stations, after 2001, with the exception of an increase in the staff complement at Holyhead Coastguard station for the control of the additional radio aerials, following the proposed closure of the Liverpool Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre in 2000. A proposed five year strategy for the service was announced on 17 November 1997, Official Report, column 9–10, and a consultation document was issued on 20 January copies of which have gone to all coastal MPs and the House Library.