§ Mr. Priorasked the Secretary of State for Defence whether, as part of the programme of military aid to the civilian community, he will give support to the National Air Guard in its efforts to augment the work of his Department in air/sea rescue.
§ Mr. RichardThe Royal Air Force search and rescue organisation is established to meet military requirements, although, subject to overriding military commitments. Service helicopters assist in civil rescue and other humanitarian missions.
I do not think that the National Air Guard could assist in the military search and rescue task. As regards other incidents around our coasts, I must refer the hon. Member to my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade.