Coastal MP calls on Government to back independent lifeboats

DEVON MP Anthony Mangnall has called on the government to renew vital grant support for an independent lifeboat operating in his constituency – and to cover the cost of PPE equipment, so rescuers can work safely during the coroanvirus pandemic.

Totnes and South Devon Conservative Mr Mangnall also pressed ministers to keep channels of communication open with the RNLI and between the lifeboat charity and other emergency services.

At a Westminster Hall debate on the future of the RNLI and independent lifeboats after the Covid-19 outbreak Mr Mangnall encouraged his fellow MPs to help to create an Independent Lifeboat Association for rescue boats operated outside of the RNLI, like Hope Cove’s near Salcombe.

He said this would initially enable the recording of data with scope to expand, providing a clearer picture of the work done by independent lifeboats.

Mr Mangnall was contacted by Hope Cove independent lifeboat during the summer, and visited the lifeboat station in the village.

Speaking after the debate he said: “Lifeboats play an integral role in our emergency service response. We should be extremely grateful to all those volunteers who put their own lives at risk to save those of others. I was pleased to be able to hold this debate and keep my promise to the Hope Cove Lifeboat and I very much hope that this debate will result in future safeguards for these vital services.”

Julia Kelland > Hope Cove, South Devon, seen from the coast path. The village has its own independent lifeboat service

Totnes MP Anthony Mangnall visits the Hope Cove lifeboat