WIRELESS ON SHIPS.

Otago Witness, Issue 3993, 23 September 1930, Page 5

WIRELESS ON SHIPS.

ENFORCEMENT SUGGESTED.

CRITICISM OF MARINE DEPARTMENT.

WELLINGTON, September 16. The extension of the use of wireless on ships, making it imperative for all vessels trading in and out of New Zealand ports was urged by members of the House of Representatives' to-night. The equipment of lifeboats with wireless was also advocated, it being pointed out that one of the lifeboats of the Tahiti which recently foundered in the Pacific, was so provided.

The Minister of Alarine (Air J. B. Donald) eaid that New Zealand was far ahead of any other country in respect to wireless equipment on ships, but he agreed that most, if not all, vessels trading in and out of our harbours should be so equipped, and he would give the matter first attention.

“ I had hoped the Minister would have been a progressive Minister and that he would have made his conservative department progressive too, but I have been disappointed in both respects,” said Mr P. Fraser (Labour member for Wellington Central). “ Regarding wireless on ships he has given us the old stereotyped answer we have had for the past five years. We were told about 1925 that we were the most progressive country in this matter; but what has been done since the late Mr Massey gave his promise in this matter following the disaster to the Ripple? Regulations were certainly made then, but the department seems to have been asleep since, and how we can still be the most advanced country I fail to see. I am tired of getting the same answer to this question. Every vessel should be equipped with wireless, and consideration might also be given to having wireless equipment on lifeboats. The Tahiti had a lifeboat so equipped and that would hare been of inestimable service had the passengers had to take to the boats for a long time.”