HC Deb 22 January 1969 vol 776 cc118-9W
Mr. James Johnson

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will make an interim statement upon the work done by the stern trawler "Orsino" in weather advisory service for British trawlers off Iceland this winter; and whether he will consider making this service permanent throughout the year.

Mr. William Rodgers

During her first 45 days on station off Iceland "Orsino" issued 12 "gale" warnings and 7 "storm" warnings; 15 of these were also "icing" warnings. On 11 of these occasions trawlers were advised to leave or stay out of particular sea areas. In general the warnings and advice have been heeded by the vessels affected. In the same period "Orsino's" doctor dealt with 8 cases requiring either a visit to another trawler or the transfer of the patient at sea to "Orsino".

The present experiment will end on 30th April. We shall consider whether a permanent weather advisory service is needed when we receive the Final Report of the Committee of Inquiry into Trawler Safety.