§ 46. Mr. David Priceasked the Secretary of State for Trade what progress he has made with his inquiries into the circumstances of the current year's Fastnet race; and what conclusions he has reached as to how loss of life can be prevented in the future.
§ Mr. ParkinsonI am awaiting the report of the inquiry being conducted by the Royal yachting association and the Royal ocean racing club, and will then consider whether any further action is necessary.
§ Mr. Bidwellasked the Secretary of State for Trade what is his estimate of the additional costs to the Exchequer arising from the August Fastnet race disaster; and if he will undertake to obtain and publish the exact costs.
§ Mr. TebbitThe estimated additional cost to the Exchequer of the rescue operation50W is in the region of £350,000 The main cost elements are estimated as follows:
(i) Helicopters/fixed wing aircraft £310,000 (ii) Her Majesty's ships £40,000 It is not possible to provide a more detailed breakdown of costs.