MP Leads Calls in Parliament for Greater Protection for RNLI Volunteers

Speaking in the House of Commons yesterday (29 October), Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde has called for greater protection for RNLI volunteers amid growing concerns over abuse and intimidation directed at crews.

Mr Babarinde asked the Minister (Keir Mather), how he will better protect and afford the safety of those valiant RNLI volunteers in places like Eastbourne and across the country so that they can continue their life-saving work? 

The Minister agreed, assuring Josh that the Government takes abuse and assaults against RNLI crews extremely seriously and is working closely with the Home Office to monitor the issue. He also praised RNLI volunteers as representing “the best of British values” for giving up their time to save lives at sea. 

The Liberal Democrat MP recently visited the RNLI crew at their Eastbourne Station at Sovereign Harbour to show support and attended the Salvation Army Service last weekend. 

In the question, Mr Babarinde said:

“I am appalled by the unacceptable abuse and intimidation that RNLI crews have faced across the country in recent months.

Saving lives at sea is not a political choice; it is a moral duty. Our valiant RNLI crews put themselves at risk every day to protect others and are infinitely more patriotic than those who seek to abuse them. 

The Government must take a firm stand against those who seek to undermine the RNLI’s outstanding work and ensure that those responsible for threatening or abusing crews are held to account.”