THE FUTURE OF PORTLAND SEARCH AND RESCUE HELICOPTER

Early day motion 1560, tabled 3 July 2002 by Lord Knight of Weymouth (Labour). Signed by 26 members.

That this House endorses the vision of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency 'to be a world-class organisation committed to preventing loss of life'; is concerned that the Agency is considering relocating the Portland Search and Rescue helicopter to Lee-on-Solent because of the clear risk to life that would result; notes that this part of England's coast has now been given world heritage status by UNESCO and is increasingly attractive to walkers, climbers, divers, sailors and those engaged in other watersports; further notes that this increases the need for a locally based helicopter rescue service; and calls on the Maritime Coastguard Agency to continue to operate a search and rescue helicopter from Portland.

Signatures by party: Conservative 10, Labour 7, Liberal Democrat 7, Labour/Co-operative 2.