(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Shipping, whether he can give any information regarding the loss of 22 men on Sunday on the No. 1 Mersey Pilot Boat, and whether he can explain how New Brighton, Hoylake and Rhyl lifeboats were given wrong directions of location of pilot boat?

In the first place, I should like to express my own deep sympathy and also, I am sure, that of the Members of this House with the relatives of the crew who lost their lives in this unfortunate accident. I have not yet received sufficient information about the case to enable me to answer the specific points raised in the question, but inquiries are being pursued and I will communicate with the hon. Member as soon as I am in a position to do so.

I take it that the ordinary inquiry will follow. Is that so?

Yes, Sir. All my information at the moment is from the Press and certain reports which I have received and until I have a full report I cannot say anything further.