HC Deb 30 July 1959 vol 610 cc158-9W
85. Mr. Hayman

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if he will make a statement on the circumstances in which shells, fired by H.M. cruiser "Belfast", fell near the trawler "Lyonesse" when it was fishing off Land's End on the night of Friday, 24th July; and what steps have been taken to prevent a repetition of the incident.

Mr. C. Ian Orr-Ewing

Until the full report has been received and studied it is not possible to say precisely what was the cause of this unfortunate incident. Action will be taken to ensure that such an incident should not occur again. Meanwhile I should like to apologise on behalf of the Admiralty to the crew and owners of the "Lyonesse".

Mr. Hayman

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what prior warning was given to the merchant navy and the fishing fleet that H.M. cruiser "Belfast" would be firing shells off Land's End on the night of Friday, 24th July.

Mr. C. Ian Orr-Ewing

I regret to say that no warning was issued as required by the Fleet Exercise and Training Instructions. The issue of a warning does not necessarily clear the range and it still remains the responsibility of the ship concerned to ensure that it is safe to open fire.