HC Deb 22 May 1974 vol 874 cc197-8W
Mr. Peter Rees

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what was the cost in each of the past three years of the coastguard helicopter service in East Kent.

Mr. Clinton Davis

The cost of the helicopter service at Manston for the last three financial years has been

£
1971–72 112,900
1972–73 143,100
1973–74 184,400

This excludes the salaries of coastguard liaison officers and the facilities which exist on the airfield.

Mr. Peter Rees

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what plans he has for extending the coastguard helicopter service in East Kent.

Mr. Clinton Davis

The matter is under consideration but I am not yet in a position to announce plans.

Mr. Peter Rees

asked the Secretary of State for Trade how many ships have been detected discharging oil in the Channel by the coastguard helicopter service in each of the past three years.

Mr. Clinton Davis

One, but considerably more reports have been received from other aircraft and ships.

Mr. Peter Rees

asked the Secretary of State for Trade how many persons have been rescued in the Channel in each of the past three years by the coastguard helicopter service.

Mr. Clinton Davis

The number of persons rescued by the Manston helicopter service were as follows:

1971 June—December 34
1972 85
1973 56
The service was not operating from January to May 1971.

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