§ Viscount ELMLEYasked the President of the Board of Trade hew many coastguards are stationed in the county of Norfolk; and if he will briefly state what their duties are?
§ Mr. W. GRAHAMThere are 13 coastguard stations in the county of Norfolk, manned by nine station officers and 30 coastguardsmen. In addition, a coastguard inspector within whose area Norfolk lies has his headquarters at Great Yarmouth, and there are district officers at Cromer and Great Yarmouth. His Majesty's Coastguard is maintained primarily to assist in the preservation of life in cases of shipwreck and distress at sea. For this purpose a look-out is kept for vessels (including aircraft) in distress, danger, or difficulties, and all possible assistance is rendered either by means of the life-saving appliances provided or by informing lifeboat or other authorities in a position to despatch or render assistance. There are also other miscellaneous duties which are performed for the Board of Trade and other Government Departments.