MARINE SAFEGUARDS

Evening Star, Issue 18052, 21 August 1922, Page 3

MARINE SAFEGUARDS

LIGHTS OR RADIO DEACONS. [From Our Parliamentary Reporter.) WELLINGTON, August 19. The rapid progress of science was evident in the discussion between tho Minister of Marine, the Hon. G. J. Anderson, and the representatives of the. Merchant Service Guild regarding protection ping from tho dangers ot tho Three Kings. In dealing with the proposal for a light on either the Western Kings or the main island, tho Minister stated that a light would cost, approximately £59,000 or £60,000, besides the regular cost of main, tenanco. In view- of tho expense, it would bo a matter for most careful consideration whether a light should bo provided at all, or whether there should be installed one of the latest scientific devices that had been invented for the safety of shipping as a result of experience gained during the war. Mr Anderson said that ho was referring to the subject of radio beacons, which ho had recently discussed with the general manager of an. English radio company. If such a beacon wore established at the Three Kings, m> doubt tho large regular passenger vessels running between Auckland and Australia would have position-finding instruments installed. Ono of the Public Works electrical engineers, who was visiting England, rvoiild make tho fullest investigation of this and other matters. Captain MTndoo referred to the necessity for making it compulsory for all ships going off tho coast to be fitted with wireless. He pointed out that it was possible, by getting into communication with Awamii and A warm wireless stations, to get cross hearings, which would enable mariners to fix the position of tho ship exactly. The Minister replied that the- existing law enabling regulations' to bo issued for ships to be provided with wireless referred only to passenger vessels, but the Shipping and Seamen Amendment Bill now before Parliament would enable this regulation to bo applied also to cargo vessel®.