Steff Aquarone, MP for North Norfolk, has spoken out in support of lifeboat crews. He praised their courage and professionalism while condemning rhetoric which turns those who save lives at sea into targets.
The North Norfolk MP said local communities know first-hand the extraordinary contribution made by RNLI volunteers and other rescue crews who respond when people are in danger regardless of who they are or where they come from.
Aquarone said the professionalism and humanity shown by lifeboat crews should be a source of pride. He warned politicians against using inflammatory language about people rescued at sea.
“Here in North Norfolk, we know exactly what our lifeboat crews stand for: courage, professionalism and humanity,” said Aquarone. “They don’t ask where someone is from when they see a person in peril. They go out and save lives.
“Our crews deserve respect and gratitude, not to find themselves targeted simply for doing that vital work.
“Politicians cannot spend years fuelling hostility towards people they call ‘foreigners’ and then act surprised when that hostility reaches the rescuers helping them. You don’t get to light the fire and then pose as the firefighter.
“To every RNLI volunteer and lifeboat crew: thank you. North Norfolk is immensely proud of you.”
Norfolk hosts RNLI lifeboat crews at Cromer, Sheringham, Wells, Hunstanton, and Great Yarmouth and Gorleston. There are also volunteer in-shore water lifeboat crews such as at Mundesley.
This article is based upon a press release from Steff Aquarone’s office.
