Question
I thank the Minister for his answer and for his full-throated support of the RNLI. He will be delighted to learn that five of the brilliant volunteers at West Kirby and Hoylake RNLI stations in my constituency have been awarded long service awards. However, they and the whole RNLI family are having to deal with a disinformation campaign run by cowards hiding behind a balaclava or a keyboard. I ask the Minister how he will give the RNLI his support and whether he could show some of that Wirral spirit, because Wirral is backing the RNLI every step of the way.50% vibes
Answer
I could not agree more strongly. I pay tribute to the five volunteers recognised in my hon. Friend’s constituency and to RNLI volunteers across the country, who provide a vital public service. I am clear that there is no space for the disgraceful abuse and intimidation we have seen recently directed at volunteers and staff. I have written to the RNLI to express my support and condemn this behaviour. I am visiting an RNLI station in Bridlington later today, and have hosted a “cuppa for the crew” in my constituency, which I encourage hon. Members to do. I want to reassure my hon. Friend that the police have confirmed that RNLI lifeguard crews are recognised as emergency workers under the Assaults on Emergency Workers (Offences) Act 2018, and therefore anyone who assaults them could face up to two years in prison—and rightly so.30% vibes
Verdict: AMBER (68/100)
The reply gives concrete, direct answers on how the Government is backing the RNLI. It cites a letter of support, a planned station visit, and confirmation that RNLI lifeguards count as emergency workers under the 2018 Act, with up to two years' imprisonment for assault. It does not address funding or other practical delivery support, and it does not engage directly with the 'Wirral spirit' framing, though the substance of the question is answered.
How we got there
| Question item | Coverage | Specificity | Rationale |
|---|---|---|---|
| How the Government will give the RNLI its support. | Addressed | Direct | The reply names concrete support actions: a letter to the RNLI expressing support, a planned station visit, and the police confirming RNLI lifeguard crews are emergency workers under the 2018 Act, with a stated maximum penalty of two years for assault. Together these answer how the Government is supporting the RNLI, though the reply does not address funding or other delivery support. |
| Whether the Minister could show the same 'Wirral spirit' in backing the RNLI. | Addressed | Direct | The 'Wirral spirit' framing is rhetorical and not engaged directly, but the substance of the item is whether the Minister will back the RNLI, and the reply shows concrete backing through the letter, the station visit, the emergency-worker protection and the cuppa event, with the statements of agreement and tribute adding to that. |