Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde has called on the Government to provide greater protection for RNLI volunteers following growing concerns about abuse, threats and intimidation directed at lifeboat crews across the country.
Speaking in the House of Commons today (29 October), the Liberal Democrat MP raised concerns about the treatment of volunteers who risk their lives rescuing people in danger at sea.
Mr Babarinde questioned Government Minister Keir Mather about what further action could be taken to protect RNLI crews, including those based in Eastbourne.
He asked how the Government would better safeguard volunteers so they could continue carrying out their life-saving work without fear of abuse or intimidation.
In response, Mr Mather assured the MP that the Government takes reports of abuse and assaults against RNLI crews extremely seriously and is working closely with the Home Office to monitor the situation.
The Minister also praised the charity's volunteers, describing them as representing "the best of British values" for giving up their time to save lives at sea.
The intervention follows a series of incidents involving RNLI crews, with some volunteers facing hostility over their involvement in rescuing migrants attempting to cross the English Channel.
Mr Babarinde recently visited Eastbourne RNLI Lifeboat Station at Sovereign Harbour to show his support for the volunteers and attended a Salvation Army service last weekend.
Speaking about the issue, he 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."
The RNLI has repeatedly stressed that its purpose is to save lives at sea, regardless of a person's nationality, background or circumstances.
The charity's volunteers respond to emergencies in challenging and sometimes dangerous conditions, with crews often leaving their jobs and families at short notice when called into action.
Mr Babarinde's intervention adds to calls for greater safeguards for lifeboat volunteers, ensuring they can continue their vital rescue work without facing threats or harassment.
The Government has confirmed it is monitoring the situation alongside the Home Office.
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