HC Deb 25 January 1983 vol 35 cc400-1W
Mr. Adley

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) if he will seek a meeting with the Ship and Boat Builders National Federation with a view to ascertaining from it information about new materials suitable for use by local authorities in lightweight and vandal-proof safety equipment for use in case of emergency rescue requirements from the shore;

(2) if he will make it his policy to seek to establish uniform national requirements for the provision by local authorities of seashore safety equipment;

(3) when his Department last communicated with coastal local authorities on the subject of seashore safety equipment; what recommendations were made; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Giles Shaw

Local authorities have a discretionary power under section 234 of the Public Health Act 1936 to provide life-saving appliances. Technical advice on suitable equipment is available from the marine offices of the Department of Trade. If the Ship and Boat Builders National Federation has information which might be of interest, I should be grateful if it would bring it to the attention of local authorities. My right hon. Friend has had no communications with coastal local authorities on this subject.