SANTA ANNA INCIDENT

Early day motion 626, tabled 12 January 1998 by Adrian Sanders (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 19 members.

That this House commends the courage, skill and outstanding seamanship of the Torbay Harbour Pilot, Captain Rob Cumbes, Torbay Lifeboat Coxswain, David Hurford, and his crew, Graham Vass and Tim Morgan from the Brixham pilot boat, Billy Tribble, Sam Thompson, Paul Duncombe and Lionel Uden from the Brixham shipping agents' support vessel 'Bay Protector', Skipper Charlie Waddy from the fishing vessel 'Marbella', the Brixham Coastguard Duty Officer, Ralph George, Watch Manager, Mrs Jan Neal, Sector Officer, Paul Aggett and Coastguard helicopter pilot, Captain Kevin Balls, together with all those involved in averting a major disaster off Torbay on 1st January 1998 when the 'Santa Anna', a 27,000 tonne tanker, dragged its anchor in stormy weather and smashed into Thatcher Rock before going aground off Hope's Nose, Torquay; and further notes the widely-held local view that the above named individuals should receive the appropriate commendations from their superiors.

Signatures by party: Labour 9, Liberal Democrat 8, Conservative 2.