AN Early Day Motion opposing the RNLI's decision to downgrade search and rescue provision in Ceredigion has been tabled by MP Ben Lake in the House of Commons this week.

The motion, which has received cross-party support from the Conservatives, Labour, SNP, DUP and Plaid Cymru, reads: "That this House commends the staff and volunteers of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) for their life-saving work around the coast and at sea; is disappointed by the decision to downgrade the all-weather lifeboat provision at New Quay; is concerned that this decision is contrary to the RNLl's core objective and principles, and puts commercial vessels, visitors, and the local RNLI crew at increased risk; reaffirms its respect for the RNLI and its indispensable work; and calls on its Trust board members and senior management team to review the decision that would deprive the Ceredigion coastline of effective all-weather lifeboat provision."

Early Day Motions (EDMs) are formal motions submitted for debate in the House of Commons. However, very few are actually debated. EDMs allow MPs to draw attention to an event or cause and MPs register their support by signing individual motions.

In June, the RNLI announced plans to downgrade New Quay lifeboat station in 2020, replacing the Mersey class all-weather lifeboat with an Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat, citing costs of £8 million to retain all-weather capability.

Ceredigion Lifeboat Campaign is fighting the proposal and argue the RNLI’s decision will leave a gap of nearly 70 miles between all-weather lifeboat stations in an area frequented by fishing vessels, passenger boats and leisure craft.

A petition opposing the proposal has so far attracted more than 15,000 signatures both on line and in hard copy. To sign online, go to https://you.38degrees.org.uk/p/CeredigionLifeboatCampaign