HC Deb 18 April 1956 vol 551 cc76-7W
75. Sir H. Mackeson

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if H.M.S. "Squirrel" and other fishery protection vessels have adequate speed to overhaul foreign fishing vessels found poaching in British territorial waters; and if the radar equipment on H.M.S. "Squirrel" was working properly on 8th and 9th April.

Mr. Ward

The answer to the first part of the Question is "Yes," except for the "Squirrel" herself, and she is due to be replaced as soon as possible by a faster vessel. The answer to the second part is also "Yes."

Sir H. Mackeson

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty why only one rating was provided from H.M.S. "Squirrel" to go aboard a Belgian fishing vessel on 8th and/or 9th April; and if he will take steps to ensure that at least two ratings will be provided in future from each fishery protection vessel.

Mr. Ward

On learning that some foreign vessels were poaching in United Kingdom territorial waters, H.M.S. "Squirrel" put to sea with all speed; since she had been off duty, she had a crew of only one officer and seven ratings. She could therefore spare only one rating as escort on board the arrested Belgian trawler. There has been no change in normal policy, which is to put at least two ratings on board arrested vessels provided that weather conditions permit.