Seaside Resorts (Life-Saving Equipment)

22.

Mr. Cordle
asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he will introduce legislation to make the provision of approved life-saving equipment at seaside resorts a statutory obligation on local authorities and to require notices stating the site and use of such equipment to be prominently displayed.

Mr. MacColl
Local authorities have power under the Public Health Act, 1936, to provide life-saving appliances. The number of appliances required and their type and siting must differ from place to place; and it would be difficult to prescribe minimum standards. My right hon. Friend thinks it is best left to the authorities themselves to decide what is needed in their areas.

Mr. Cordle
Yes, but what action does the Minister propose to take to satisfy himself that local authorities carry out the review under Circular 52/65, and will he set up some system whereby there is periodical inspection of safety precautions?

Mr. MacColl
My right hon. Friend would not wish to force local authorities in this matter. He has no evidence that they are not carrying out their duties in the matter as one would expect them to. If the hon. Gentleman has other evidence I shall certainly be glad to look into it.