§ Mr. Hall-Davisasked the Secretary of State for Energy how many deaths have resulted from electrocution from overhead cables in the last five years; how many involved the rigging of boats; and if he will give a general direction to the CEGB and electricity boards to take steps to en-ensure that adequate warning notices are displayed where land over which cables pass is used for the parking of sailing dinghies.
§ Mr. EadieThe number of members of the public killed in accidents related to overhead electricity lines since 1970, and the numbers included in these which involved boats are:
Sailing Accidents Total On water On land 1970–71 29 — — 1971–72 30 — — 1972–73 24 — 2 1973–74 11 — — 1974–75 19 — — 1975 to date 11 1 1 124 1 3 Following an approach by the Electricity Council, the Royal Yacht Association circularised affiliated member clubs, which cover the great majority of sailors, pointing out the hazard of approaching close to overhead lines and recommending that clubs should consult their elec- 884W tricity boards where the movement of boats was likely in the vicinity of such lines. Constant reminders have been printed in the RYA's news-letters to clubs and a new circular is being prepared for inclusion in the February news-letter. Action to display notices in the vicinity of overhead lines is, I consider, more suitable to the clubs than boards, which do not in any case have power to erect notices on private property.