HC Deb 08 February 1915 vol 69 cc269-70W
Mr. NOEL BUXTON

asked the Secretary to the Admiralty if his attention has been directed to the report of the inquest held at Sheringham on 21st January last on bodies washed ashore from the wreck of the "George Royle," which foundered on Sheringham Shoal on 18th January; and if, in view of the rider added to the verdict, in which the jury expressed the opinion that there is not a sufficient coastguard service in Sheringham and that strong representations be made to the Admiralty with a view to remedying this state of affairs, it is proposed to take any action in the matter whereby the coastguard supervision in the Sheringham district may be improved?

Dr. MACNAMARA

The report referred to has been received. The Coastguard in war are employed where their special training is of most value. It is not practicable for them to undertake general watching for wrecks, and they are not responsible for this duty, though directions have been issued to Stations to help whenever it is possible to do so without detriment to their naval duties.