HC Deb 08 December 1954 vol 535 cc47-8W
74. Mr. Arbuthnot

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he will make a statement on the loss of the South Goodwin Lightship.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Yes. As hon. Members will know, the South Goodwin Lightship was driven from her station by a gale during the night of 26th November and, within about an hour, was wrecked on the Goodwin Sands. A research scientist on board was rescued by helicopter, but, despite an extensive search, which included the use of frogmen, no trace of the crew of seven has been found. A full inquiry is being carried out by the Corporation of Trinity House, who will inform me of their findings.

I am sure the House will join me in expressing deep sympathy with the relatives of those who have lost their lives in this tragic occurrence. I would like also to express Her Majesty's Government's gratitude to the crews of the ships and aircraft engaged in attempts at rescue who ran great risks in their search for survivors, inside as well as outside the wrecked lightship, under appalling weather conditions.

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