John Lamont MP has welcomed the UK Government's decision to reverse plans to remove hourly payments for Coastguard rescue officers, describing it as a "necessary" u-turn following widespread concern.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency had proposed ending the hourly payments made to volunteers attending emergency call-outs and training sessions, a move which campaigners warned could have led to experienced officers leaving the service.
The Government has now confirmed that the plans have been dropped, meaning Coastguard rescue officers will continue to receive the payments.
Borders MP John Lamont said: “This is a welcome and necessary u-turn.
“These proposals were completely wrong and risked driving experienced and dedicated Coastguard volunteers out of the service.
“I was proud to stand alongside rescue officers outside the UK Parliament, including Kelly Stockdale from Eyemouth, to support their campaign.
“Our coastal communities rely on these volunteers, who give up their time to keep others safe. Ministers have listened, but they should never have put these vital payments at risk in the first place.”
