§ Mr. McQuarrieasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he has now reached a decision as to whether to retain the Moray coastguard station, Peterhead; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David MitchellA recent Rayner report on the Coastguard's use of resources recommended that the maritime rescue sub-centre at Peterhead should be closed. I have now considered the matter most carefully, together with representations from the hon. Member for Banff and Buchan (Mr. McQuarrie) and although the arguments in favour of closure have some substance, I have decided not to accept the recommendation. The report also made the recommendation, which has been accepted, that every two years all of the Coastguard's rescue centres should be subject to review. My decision in refusing the recommended closure of the Peterhead centre naturally does not exempt the centre from these routine future reviews.